The Barbers Pole Pest…
Barber’s pole worm, scientifically known as Haemonchus contortus, is a blood sucking parasite that lives inside the stomach of sheep, goats and alpacas. Animals are most affected between the months of December and May when the weather is warm and wet. This clever little worm is unique in that it may never cause diarrhoea like most other gut worms do but causes severe anaemia instead. Affected animals appear to be weak, uncoordinated and lag behind the rest of the mob (se video below). If you take a closer look at the gums and eyes you will often see that they are pale white (see pictures).
Alpacas only show signs of illness when they are REALLY sick. If your alpacas haven’t been drenched with the appropriate products then they could be at risk.
Call us today if your alpacas are exhibiting these symptoms or if you would like to chat to us about drench options.
