Sustainable Approaches to Parasite Control in Ruminant Livestock

Authors

Joan M. Burke, USDA ARS Dale Bumpers Small Farms Research Center
James E. Miller, School of Veterinary Medicine

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

3-1-2020

Abstract

© 2019 It is increasingly difficult to manage and control gastrointestinal nematode parasites in pasture-based ruminant livestock operations because of the high prevalence of anthelmintic resistance. Anthelmintics should be combined with alternative forms of control. Sustainable tools include copper oxide wire particles and condensed tannin–rich plants, which target primarily Haemonchus contortus in small ruminants. Nematophagous fungi reduce larvae on pasture and target nematode larvae in feces of most livestock species. In addition, and perhaps most importantly, genetic selection focuses on parasite resistance. Producers should use as many tools as possible to minimize the need for pharmaceutical interventions and optimize animal production.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

Veterinary Clinics of North America - Food Animal Practice

First Page

89

Last Page

107

Recommended Citation

Burke, J., & Miller, J. (2020). Sustainable Approaches to Parasite Control in Ruminant Livestock. Veterinary Clinics of North America - Food Animal Practice, 36 (1), 89-107. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cvfa.2019.11.007