The NZSAP study group on internal parasites and animal production

R.V. Brunsdon

Wallaceville Animal Research Centre, Upper Hutt

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Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production. 1975, 35: 51-57

1. At present, internal parasites remain a very important source of production loss affecting the sheep and cattle industries.

2. There is considerable scope for improvement in both the effectiveness and economy of anthelmintic usage.

3. On the basis of recent knowledge of the epidemiology of infections, the time is now opportune for a reorientation of the approach to parasite control - i.e., a change from an almost singular dependence on anthelmintic treatment to an integrated system in which a more limited use of anthelmintics is associated with planned stock and pasture management.

In present circumstances, progress towards more efficient parasite control will depend on a clearer understanding by farmers and their advisers of the seasonal patterns of parasite infections and the reasons for their occurrence. It is the hope of the Study Group that the information contained in the published report will assist in achieving this understanding.

Keywords: NZSAPAB;