On the course we went on, they showed us a large container of wormer that last a year or more and is administered by injection. They said jut shove it in any where in the neck region.
Is this really the case? Doesn't sound too pleasant!!
I aim for the side of the neck, halfway between the ear and shoulder. Providing you've got the right length and gauge of needle for your pig there shouldn't be any problem in hitting something you shouldn't or the needle bending. The syringe I use has a wide end to the plunger, so you push the needle in and in one fell swoop press the end to deliver the dose - it's quick, fairly easy and relitively painless.
The one tip I would give if you're injecting is to have 2 people there, one stands at the gate with the food to get their attention and the other is behind the pigs (assumming big pigs that you can't hold), as soon as their nose hits the bucket/trough make your move. Be confident, calm and quick and they shouldn't even be aware that you've done it. A good way to get some practice is when you source your weaners, ask the breeder if you can come when they get their jags. Most will be happy for you to be there, give you tips and show you exactly how it's done, maybe even offer you the chance to do it yourself. This will give you the confidence to go for it yourself when needed. It really isn't that bad, just takes practice
I use noromectin (injectable) as it provides internal & extrnal protection in one and saves having to remember/purchase a seperate treatment.
I did use (and still have half a tub) of flubenol powder (an oral treatment) to worm them and whilst none of my pigs have ever shown any sign of lice or mange I have had a case of one piglet in a litter developing mange (I've been advised that it is possible for stress to cause an outbreak, but obviously, would love to hear others thoughts on this) But treating with the noromectin has cleared up the skin condition in the affected piglet, so everyone else has had the jab too (seems pointless to waste the bottle
)
Fatteners are generally wormed at weaning and that'll be about it as they're off for slaughter around 6 months old, for all my other pigs, it's around 6 months they get wormed.
What's right for one isn't always right for everyone, so if you're unsure either talk to your vet or the breeder you buy from and find out what they do, it's always a handy point of contact too.
HTH
Karen