6-30 FB De-Worming Advice

 As instances of internal parasite resistance to deworming treatments are becoming more numerous among the country's cattle herds, it becomes apparent that herd managers must pay closer attention to the use of valuable herd-health tools. Controlling parasites is a proven practice to improve performance in all stages of cattle production; however, both overuse and underuse of anthelmintics can lead to a resistance problem.

Overuse is the result of producers deworming too often, and underuse occurs when too little product is administered, according to Dr. Mac Devin, a professional services veterinarian with a veterinary drug company. He says that "In a closed population, if you treat too frequently, the remaining worms are the only ones left to breed," he says. "Resistance increases with each generation. And if less than the labeled dose is given, again, this leaves too many survivors to pass on their resistant genes to the next generation."

To establish a resistance management program in you’re herd, here’s Dr. Bill Barton Idaho Head Veteranarian: The best thing folks can do is work closely with their veterinarian and develop a strategic de-worming program for their specific herd.”