Sheep Capsule Debate Hots Up As Lambing Nears

Sheep Capsule Debate Hots Up As Lambing Nears

On farm discussion on sheep capsule use is hotting up, and animal health company Merial is urging farmers to adopt an evidence-based approach to the use of capsules.

Merial Veterinary Technical Services Manger, Justin Hurst, says lamb and ewe productivity, balanced with a parasite management plan needs to be the rationale for sheep capsule use on farms. Hurst says sheep farming as an industry is aiming for a more saleable product at weaning - with more and heavier lambs and heavier ewes being the most desired outcome.

"When used in selected ewes the productivity and financial benefits are obvious, as shown in two on farm trials," he says.

Hurst advocates evidence-based treatments, and encourages farmers to weigh up all options on good sound research.

"There's a lot of on farm discussion about parasite management and control. It's a big issue, especially in sheep farming, so where we can add value to farm management, we will."

Hurst says the bigger picture behind capsule use goes further than weight gain. Sheep carrying less worms are less daggy and more efficient in processing grass into milk - saving farmers valuable time in hands-on animal management.

"Timing of treatment is also key to successful parasite management. Immunity to parasites relaxes around lambing due to hormonal changes and energy partitioning. Capsules provide larval control of all species over the whole of this period, allowing treatment up to six weeks pre-lamb if conditions dictate" says Hurst.

"We're aiming at working with farmers to use worm treatments sustainably, while optimising income from their sheep this year."

New Zealand-based sheep capsule trial data is available from Merial Head Office or local Territory Managers.

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