Drenching of pregnant ewes and its effect on their wool production and lamb growth rates

W.H.D. Leaning, G.C. Cairns, J.K. McKenzie and W.R. Hunter

Merck Sharp & Dohme (New Zealand) Ltd, Lower Hutt

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Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production. 1970, 30: 52-64

The economic response to anthelmintic drenching of pregnant ewes was studied in two trials (1967 and 1968). The production of wool and lamb from ewes given a pre-lambing drench with thiabendazole alone, or in combination with a post-lambing drench, were compared with the production obtained from untreated ewes.

In both trials a small post-parturient rise in worm egg counts occurred in the untreated ewes.

Drenched ewes showed significant responses in wool quality and recorded as less break, less totting, improved style grading and increased fleece value compared with fleeces from undrenched ewes. Non-significant increases in greasy fleece weight were recorded in both trials.

In the second trial the lambs were slaughtered. Drenching of the ewes caused significant increases in weaning weights and dressed carcass weights.

Comparison of financial returns for ewe wool and lamb carcass (for Trial 2) showed a significant increase in values (gross and net) for the drenched compared with the untreated ewes.

Keywords: NZSAPAB;

Last Updated 24-08-2000