Managing Goat and Sheep Parasites in North Texas
MANAGING PARASITES IN GOATS AND SHEEP: A NORTH TEXAS GUIDE
Parasites are one of the biggest challenges for goat and sheep owners in North Texas. From Parker County pastures to Tarrant County farms, our region’s hot, humid summers and mild winters provide the perfect breeding ground for parasites like gastrointestinal worms. At Gursky Veterinary Services, we’re committed to helping you protect your herd year-round. This guide will walk you through the most common parasites, prevention strategies, and how to manage infestations effectively.
WHY ARE PARASITES A BIG CONCERN IN NORTH TEXAS?
North Texas’s climate can lead to rapid parasite reproduction. Our warm, wet seasons create ideal conditions for parasite larvae to thrive in pastures, while mild winters rarely halt their life cycle completely making effective parasite management an ongoing prospect.
COMMON GOATS AND SHEEP PARASITES
Barber Pole Worms (Haemonchus contortus) - This blood-sucking worm is one of the most dangerous for goats and sheep. Signs include severe anemia, pale gums, fluid under the jaw (bottle jaw), and sudden weight loss.
Coccidia - Coccidia are single-celled parasites that primarily affect young goats and lambs. They spread rapidly in crowded, damp conditions like barns or wet pastures. Symptoms include diarrhea (often bloody), weight loss, and lethargy.
Liver Flukes - These are Found in areas with standing water, such as low-lying pastures, and damage the host’s liver and can weaken overall health. Symptoms include appetite loss, anemia, and fluid retention.
Tapeworms - While less harmful than others, tapeworms can affect growth and nutrition, particularly in young animals.
PREVENTING PARASITES
Parasite management is always preferred over treatment. Below are effective strategies tailored for goat and sheep owners:
FAMACHA Scoring - FAMACHA scoring assesses livestock anemia levels by checking the color of the lower eyelid. This is particularly effective for monitoring barber pole worm infestations. At Gursky Veterinary Services, we can teach you or your ranch hands how to perform regular FAMACHA scoring and checks.
Rotational Grazing - Parasite larvae can accumulate in pastures, and by rotating grazing, you can minimize exposure by allowing pastures time for the larvae to die off. It is recommended to rotate animals every 3-4 weeks and avoid overgrazing, as parasites tend to concentrate in short grass.
Proper Nutrition - Well-nourished animals are better at resisting parasites. Always provide access to high-quality hay, minerals, and clean water, especially during dry spells common in North Texas summers.
Deworming - A growing problem in the DFW region is drug-resistant parasites caused by indiscriminate deworming. We recommend setting up a deworming process based on FAMACHA scores, fecal egg counts, and symptoms. By utilizing a targeted deworming program, your herd receives effective treatment without contributing to resistance.
Maintain Clean and Dry Environments - Parasite larvae thrive in damp, muddy conditions. By keeping barns and feeding areas clean, dry, and well-drained farmers and ranchers can reduce their livestock’s exposure to a myriad of parasites.
MANAGING PARASITE INFESTATIONS
If you suspect a parasite issue in your herd taking immediate action is critical to your animal’s wellbeing. Never ignore symptoms like pale eyelids, bottle jaw, poor growth, and diarrhea.
At Gursky Veterinary Services, we offer our clients:
Fecal Egg Counts: To identify which parasites are present and determine the severity of the infestation.
Customized Treatment Plans: Tailored deworming and supportive care strategies for your herd.
Education and Support: We’ll work with you to implement long-term parasite prevention programs specific to your farm’s needs.
Managing parasites is essential to maintaining a healthy, productive herd. At Gursky Veterinary Services, we bring local knowledge, advanced veterinary care, and a commitment to supporting livestock owners across North Texas. From routine check-ups to emergency care, we’re here to help.
If you’re concerned about parasites in your goats or sheep, Schedule an appointment today!
