HOW TO DEAL WITH INTERNAL PARASITES

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Finally, almost all medicines given to a milking animal will be passed into the milk, and—again—anthelmintics will follow this pattern. Of course, the quantity of medication that is passed into the milk—and the length of time during which it will show up—varies from one drug to another.

Dairy farmers refer to the time period during which a medicine can be detected in milk as the "withdrawal time" for that medication. No milk should be used for human consumption during this withdrawal time . . . although some of it may be safe for animal use. There is also evidence that several wormers will cause a milking cow or goat to dry up (quit producing milk).
When you're in doubt about using a particular anthelmintic on any sick, young, pregnant, or lactating animal, always consult your vet before administering the medication.

IN CONCLUSION...

If you've been listening closely up to this point, you're probably anxious to begin your own worm elimination program. So, let's take a look at Dr. Kidd's Famous Five Point Parasite Control Course (well . . . maybe someday it'll be famous).

POINT 1: There is a wealth of wisdom in keeping your critters healthy . Give your animals all of the aid you can in their battles against internal parasites. This help should include a wholesome diet, a fresh water supply, clean and adequate shelter and bedding, and—once in a while—a little bit of affection to keep the critters content. A healthy, happy animal is much more likely to be able to develop its own resistance to internal parasites.

POINT 2: Graze your grass graciously . If possible, rotate your animals annually to a completely fresh pasture (that is, a piece of land that hasn't had beasts on it for at least a year). A three-year pasture rotation, of course, would be even better. (Remember, too, that adequate pasture space helps avoid dense accumulations of potentially egg-bearing manure.)

POINT 3: Manage your manure . Animals that are confined in pens, sheds, stalls, or kennels should have their manure removed daily. In addition, the barnyard or feedlot should be cleaned periodically.

(No parasite control program is complete UNTIL you practice—religiously—these first three points!)

POINT 4: Pickle those parasites with the proper parasiticide . Identify the parasites that are infecting your animals, and then attack the squirmy villains with the best ammunition that you have . . . consistent and routine use of an effective anthelmintic.

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