1. Always make sure any treatment you give is fully effective.
SCOPS is an industry led group that works in the interest of the UK sheep industry. It recognises that, left unchecked, anthelmintic resistance is one of the biggest challenges to the future health and profitability of the sector.
The SCOPS group was formed to develop sustainable strategies for parasite control in sheep, facilitate and oversee the delivery of these recommendations to the industry and ensure that new research and development is incorporated to refine and improve advice given to the sheep industry.
SCOPS includes representatives from a wide range of industry organisations – logos and links are below. The equivalent organisation for cattle is the Control Of Worms Sustainably (COWS).
While the main threat for nematodirus in England, Wales and much of Scotland has now receded, there are still some hill flocks in Scotland at risk, particularly for later-born lambs. Producers in these areas should consider their individual situation in terms of height above sea level compared to the weather station dot on the map, age of lambs and the aspect of the fields (at this point in the year, north facing fields are later to warm up and nematodirus hatching can take place quickly once this happens). Risk assessment guidelines are provided alongside the map.
Regular testing. The worm challenge is expected to increase during June and July so regular monitoring using faecal egg counts (FECs) is essential. Done regularly, FECs will help build a picture of the worm challenges and enable you to treat when necessary, avoiding unnecessary worming, but also minimising performance loss due to waiting until there are dirty or ill-thrifty lambs in a mob. More here.
