Slowing Dewormer Resistance Through Producer Education
Animal Science
Cassidy Dossin
Agriculture & Natural Resources Agent
UF/IFAS Extension
Green Cove Springs
Abstract
The management of internal parasites, particularly Haemonchus contortus (barber pole worm), is a leading threat to small ruminant production. Florida climate makes this challenge particularly problematic for producers, as consistently warm and humid weather favor parasite growth practically year-round. County extension agents collaborated with university specialists and veterinarians to offer training opportunities for producers to gain the skills and knowledge needed to use dewormers as recommended by current research. Selectively treating animals for internal parasites is highly recommended to reduce dewormer use and slow the development of drug resistance and should be implemented on all sheep and goat operations. To accomplish this, the FAMACHA system was taught through a producer certification program. FAMACHA scoring is a standardized, widely accepted practice involving recognizing anemia associated with barber pole worm infection by categorizing the color of mucous membranes in the eye, allowing the producer to identify the most heavily infected animals to be treated. The certification program consists of an online module, exam, and in-person lecture, demonstration, and hands-on training. Incorporating an in-person component with hands-on activities was crucial to ensuring participants were improving their skills and developing confidence in their ability to conduct the practice. Since 2022, 148 individuals participated in six FAMACHA certification programs. Program surveys indicated 91% of participants increased their knowledge, and 30 surveyed individuals indicated a total economic benefit of $21,499 as a result of the course. Additionally, 85% of respondents indicated an intention to change their behavior to include at least one of the following practices: monitoring the flock or herd for internal parasites, deworming according to research-based recommendations, and utilizing the FAMACHA method. The FAMACHA certification program gives producers the confidence to conduct FAMACHA scoring on their operations, selectively treat animals, reduce veterinary costs, and reduce overall dewormer use for the flock or herd. Overall, these practices can reduce operational expenses, maintain livestock health, and slow the development of dewormer resistance.
Authors: Cassidy Dossin, Alicia Halbritter, Lizzie Whitehead, Paulette Tomlinson, Stephen Jennewein, Erin Jones, Cindy Sanders
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Cassidy Dossin Agriculture & Natural Resources Agent, University of Florida, Florida, 32043
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Alicia Halbritter Agriculture & Natural Resources Agent, University of Florida, Florida, 32063
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Lizzie Whitehead Agriculture & Natural Resources Agent, University of Florida, Florida, 32091
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Paulette Tomlinson Agriculture & Natural Resources Agent, University of Florida, Florida, 32055
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Stephen Jennewein Small Farms & Alternative Enterprises Agent, University of Florida, Florida, 32254
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Erin Jones Livestock & Forages Agent, University of Florida, Florida, 32064
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Cindy Sanders County Extension Director and Livestock Agent, University of Florida, Florida, 32669