Parasites Negatively Impact Dairy Herd Health and Producers’ Bottom Lines
With forecasts for lower milk prices in 2015, dairy producers will be focused even more on keeping their herds healthy and maximizing every dollar.
“In general, internal parasite issues are not often linked to dairies, which have limited pasture exposure,” says Joe Dedrickson, DVM, Ph.D., Merial, Inc. “This can result in a false sense of security among dairy managers, as parasites could be affecting the health and productivity of cows.”
Dairy cows can still have internal and external parasites.
In fact, a study of dairy herds in four states revealed 87 percent of farms had positive fecal samples for internal parasites and 50 percent of farms raising heifers in confinement also had positive fecal samples.
Parasite infections can lead to a number of herd health problems, including negative effects on the immune system, decreased appetites, decreased weaning weights and lower conception rates.
But by using a comprehensive parasite-control product such as EPRINEX® (eprinomectin), producers can be confident in their ability to treat cattle and focus on what really matters: a healthy herd and quality dairy production. EPRINEX kills 39 species and stages of internal and external parasites in cattle – more than any other conventional dewormer available on the market. EPRINEX also ensures zero milk or meat withholding after use.
“Parasite control can significantly help with better-performing cattle and, in turn, help producers’ bottom line, which is particularly important with today’s economic climate,” says Dedrickson.
Learn more by visiting www.EPRINEXkillsit.com.
About Merial
Merial is a world-leading, innovation-driven animal health company, providing a comprehensive range of products to enhance the health and well-being of a wide range of animals. Merial employs 6,100 people and operates in more than 150 countries worldwide with more than €2 billion of sales in 2014. Merial is a Sanofi company. For more information, please see www.merial.com.
