Antiparasitic resistance is an increasing concern in livestock farming. Resistance is present when a medicine does not kill the target parasites as expected. Every time animals are treated with an anthelmintic (wormer), there is a risk of selecting for resistant worms. Therefore, alternate methods of controlling worms in livestock that do not rely only on dosing (e.g. herd or flock health plans, grazing management) should be considered. Multiple factors contribute to the increased risk of resistance and parasite control planning should try to address these where possible. Parasite control planning should be tailored to individual farms and adapted when needed to changing conditions.
Parasite Control Consult
The purpose of the Parasite Control TASAH is to facilitate discussions and planning between farmers and their veterinary practitioners on the best practices around parasite control with the long view of minimising the further development of anthelmintic resistance. The TASAH will fund a veterinary farm visit and one faecal egg count.
The data obtained through the consults will provide anonymous information on parasite control practices on Irish farms. This is extremely useful to help guide best practice advice in Ireland for sustainable parasite control in light of anthelmintic resistance.
As part of the programme, participating Veterinary practitioners undergo training relating to parasite control.
To register your cattle herd or sheep flock, click on the button below.