Drenching

Drenching is an important aspect of farming sheep, as internal parasites can have a significant impact on the health and productivity of sheep. Parasites can cause weight loss and death in severe cases. 

One of the most troublesome worms in our region is Barber’s Pole, scientifically known as Haemonchus contortus. It is a blood sucking worm notorious for causing significant health issues in sheep, particularly in the Auckland and Northland regions of New Zealand due to the warmer and wetter climate which facilitates its lifecycle.

Effects on Sheep:

• Blood Loss: Barber’s Pole worms attach to the stomach lining and feed on blood, leading to significant blood loss.
• Anemia: The blood loss can result in severe anemia, characterised by pale gums and membranes.
• Weakness and Lethargy: Affected sheep may appear weak and lethargic due to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. Interestingly, this parasite does not cause scouring like Tapeworms.
• Bottle Jaw: A noticeable swelling under the jaw of built up fluid, known as “bottle jaw,” is a common sign of severe infestation.
• Death: If left untreated Barbers Pole often leads to death, particularly in lambs and more vulnerable sheep.

Solution: Drenching is the most effective solution to prevent parasitic infections and maintain the overall health and well-being of your sheep.

• Regular Drenching: Implement a regular drenching schedule to keep worm burdens under control.
• Strategic Drenching: Use strategic drenching practices, especially during high-risk periods like the warmer seasons.
• Correct Dosage: Getting the dosage right is crucial. If you give too little, the parasites survive and develop resistance. If you give too much of certain drenches, it can be fatal to the sheep. Additionally, using the same drench too frequently can also lead to parasite resistance.
• Monitor and Rotate: Regularly monitor worm burden and rotate drenches to prevent resistance.
• Rotational Grazing: Move sheep between pastures frequently to break the worm lifecycle, reducing their exposure to parasites and allowing pastures to recover.

I follow best drenching practices and administer drenches safely and effectively. As part of my drench resistance management strategy, I use a range of high-quality drenches tailored for sheep of all ages, and the different seasons in the Auckland and Northland region.