How often should I deworm?
Parasite control is an important ingredient in managing your flock. There is evidence that some parasites are becoming resistant to deworming drugs (called “anthelmintics”) from overuse by well-meaning shepherds. Needless to say, this question of parasites can be complicated as well as controversial. It seems there are two primary schools of thought on the subject. One, promoted by drug companies and vets, has you deworm your entire flock every 3 weeks — whether they need it or not. The current trend is to deworm only when necessary. When is that? By inspecting the lower eyelid of the each sheep, you can gage the parasite load of that individual sheep and dose that one if needed. The degree of paleness in the lower eyelid seems to give an indication of the sheep’s anemia level. Redness is good. Paleness indicates anemia and too heavy of a parasite load. This is also known as a FAMACHA test. Icelandic sheep develop a level of immunity to parasites. Although, it takes lambs about a year
