95 Per Cent of Parasites on the Pastures
US - Only 5 percent of parasites live in cattle, which means 95 per cent of parasites are on pastures. That is why Dr. Bert Stromberg, parasitologist and professor, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, says a parasite control programme also can help reduce parasite burdens on pastures.
3 February 2009
1 minute read
According to Livestock Roundup, cattle are only one stop on the parasite life cycle; therefore, parasite control programmes should focus on cattle and the resulting burden on pastures.
“We know that a large number of parasites live on the pastures and they can survive there for an extended period of time, even during Minnesota winters,” Dr. Stromberg told the news organisation. “Therefore, producers should keep in mind that a strategic deworming program should focus on taking care of parasites in the host before they contaminate pastures.”
Dr. Frank Hurtig, director, Merial Veterinary Services, says a fall parasite control treatment, combined with freezing conditions will help, but producers should not stop there.
“Freezing conditions will help kill some of the parasites on pastures,” Hurtig says. “Producers should consult their veterinarians about the best time to treat for parasites, but cleaning up cattle in the spring also can help reduce the overall parasite load that can affect cattle's performance.”
He adds that in Southern climates, it is even more important that producers consider parasites on pastures - they cannot count on a freeze to do the work for them.
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