Most farms would have enjoyed an extended period, where drenching has been unnecessary, due to dry conditions.
It would be advisable to faecal test, following rain or for those that primarily drench when they consider it necessary, to consider drenching now that the ground is moist.
Most areas have enjoyed some rain lately, drenching for Barbers Pole after a few wet days following an extended dry period may save a stressful and urgent situation, that comes with Barbers Pole burden.
Fluke is hard to diagnose and requires a specific drench, if animals are in very wet paddocks or paddocks that may be affected by swollen creeks or flowing water, then you need to keep this parasite on the radar.
Tape worm can also be an issue following extended dry conditions, in drought there is an increase in wildlife sharing our paddocks looking for food and water, they are renown for bring tape worm with them, please keep this in mind. Keeping a check on dung piles, for tape segments, is the undisputed evidence of tape presence, please check drenches are adequate to treat the parasite you are targeting..
Thank you to Deb Trostian, Animal Health and Welfare. AAA NSW Region of the Australian Alpaca Association. Click here to find out more about the AAA.
Photo courtesy by Cheryl Warning. Autumn 2017 at Little Valley Farm