The potential role of pasture management in the control of trichostrongyle worm infection in calves with observations on the diagnostic value of plasma pepsinogen determinations

Authors: Brunsdon RV
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 20, Issue 11, pp 214-220, Nov 1972
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Cattle, Livestock, Production animal, Ruminant
Subject Terms: Alimentary system/gastroenterology, Animal production/wastage, Diagnostic procedures, Diet/rations/food, Management, Grazing, Farm/farm management, Nematode, Nutrition/metabolism, Parasite control, Parasites - internal, Pasture/crop
Article class: Scientific Article

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Abstract: Complete integration of therapeutic treatment with pasture management has been for many years the preoccupation of veterinary parasitologists seeking the most effective means of controlling trichostrongyle infections in ruminants. The simplicity and effectiveness of this approach has been demonstrated by recent studies in the British Isles. In a series of controlled trials, conducted over several years, Michel (1968, 1969) has shown that a single change of pasture in summer (to pasture not grazed since winter) accompanied by one effective anthelmintic treatment will adequately control parasitic gastro-enteritis in calves and permit the achievement of linear weight gains. The treatment regimen currently recommended in New Zealand for the control of trichostrongyle worm infection in dairy calves consists of a drench at weaning, followed by a further four or five drenches at monthly or six-weekly intervals, depending on whether the season is wet or dry. Although certainly affording protection against serious disease, this procedure is neither the most economic nor efficient in that no account is taken of the potential role of pasture management in control. This paper describes the first of a series of trials designed to evaluate, under New Zealand conditions, the integrated system of control advocated by Michel (1968, 1969) and to examine further the value of plasma pepsinogen determinations as a diagnostic aid for ostertagiasis and mixed infections of the abomasum. The results of concurrent detailed observations on the patterns of availability of trichostrongyle larvae on pasture will be published separately.

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