Importance Of External Parasite Control:
External parasites can cause irritation, stress, production losses, and affect grazing behaviour in livestock when pest populations are high. External parasites can carry and transmit livestock diseases such as pinkeye or anaplasmosis from one animal to another. Parasites can also be vectors for human diseases like Congo fever. To effectively manage external parasites, farmers must identify the problematic pest. There are many different species of flies, lice and ticks that can affect livestock. When bringing new animals into a herd, farmers should isolate, inspect and treat incoming livestock for external parasites prior to introducing to the herd. Some types of parasites, such as flies and ticks, generally affect grazing cattle. Other parasites,such as lice, primarily affect confined livestock.
To Maximize Control And Prevent The Development Of Pesticide Resistance, Producers Should:
– Firstly, check all animals to make sure that external parasites are the cause of the problem.
– Always follow the manufacturer’s label/ package instructions.
– Apply the correct product for the target species at the appropriate time of year and at the proper dosage.
– Alternate between parasite control products with different modes of action and active ingredients to slow resistance.
– Monitor pest populations following treatment to assess effectiveness.