Sheep Measles: A Rising Concern for Dog Owners and Farmers
Sheep measles, a disease caused by the Taenia ovistapeworm, is on the rise, and it's time to take action. A recent study reveals a concerning spike in infection rates, with 1.21% of processed carcasses testing positive for the disease in October. This is a critical issue for farmers, as sheep measles can cause blemishes in sheepmeat, making it undesirable for consumers, especially in the export market.
The Ovis Management project manager, Michelle Simpson, warns that the warm and wet weather has created ideal conditions for the C ovis parasite to thrive. She emphasizes the importance of regular dosing for all farm dogs with tapeworm treatments containing Praziquantel, a cheap and effective solution. Simpson notes that the tapeworm eggs can survive on pasture for up to 300 days, making it crucial to maintain a consistent dosing routine.
Dogs become infected by consuming untreated meat or offal containing live cysts. The tapeworm eggs are then spread to sheep through dog faeces in grazing areas. Additionally, eggs can be dispersed over large areas by flies. To prevent the spread of sheep measles, it is recommended to freeze raw sheep or goat meat to -10°C or below for at least 10 days or cook it thoroughly before feeding it to dogs.
Farmers are urged to take immediate action to protect their animals and the quality of their produce. By following the recommended dosing routine and handling meat properly, they can help control the spread of sheep measles and ensure the health and well-being of their livestock.
