Summary
Sean Daly, a veterinarian based in Southland, discusses the significant financial impact of drench resistance on sheep farmers in New Zealand, estimating losses at around $186 million. He highlights the importance of addressing this issue, particularly in challenging climatic conditions that can affect lamb production.
Daly explains that advancements in technology from the company FECPAC, founded by Greg Myrams, have improved the ability to test for and identify parasites affecting livestock. Originally a simple home test kit, the technology now includes Worm ID, which allows farmers to determine the specific types of parasites present and assess levels of drench resistance.
The cost of these testing kits is relatively low, with basic fecal egg counts priced around $45 to $50, and additional testing for worm identification costing about $180. Daly emphasizes the potential financial benefits of using this technology, as it can lead to increased lamb weight and, consequently, higher profits for farmers.
Show Notes
A Southland Vet who says drench resistance in our sheep industry is costing farmers hundreds of millions of dollars. But a solution is at hand! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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