Worms in Alpacas

Alpacas just like any other animal are susceptible to worms.   These compete for protein and damage to the intestine and other areas can lead to significant losses in production, growth and development. Despite the fact that Alpacas use communal dung piles alpacas still pick up worms that are also associated with sheep, cattle and goats.  These include Barbers Pole Worm, Brown Stomach Worm, Black Scour Worm and Liver Fluke.  A simple worm test will determine if you need to drench or not.

Routine testing and managing worms in your stock effectively can lead to significant production gains, ie heavier fleeces, better staple strength, higher growth rates. A StockWatch worm test will also give you peace of mind knowing your valuable stock aren't suffering from a parasitic burden.  Drench because you know your Alpacas have worms...not because you think they might!

A StockWatch worm egg count shows results in eggs per gram and split into the basic roundworm types and include comments on any other parasites observed.  Results are forwarded within 24 hours of arrival at the Lab.

Test Options:

StockWatch Standard Test: Mob average offering simple sample collection, quickly answering if drenching is required or your recent drench has performed.

Premium Test: Mob average including range of 10 samples, which offers producers more detail to make decisions when the risk of infestation is high.

Liver Fluke Testing StockWatch Liver Fluke Test Results are represented as either Positive or Negative. A positive result indicates the presence of adult liver fluke. If positive, management actions are most likely required.

Genetic Testing 50+ animals $3.85/head

(Less than 50 samples = $5/hd)

Basic Drench Resistance Testing:  It doesn't get simpler. Collect a sample 10 to 14 days after you have drenched to see if the drench you are using is effective or if it's time to rotate your drench.  For best results send a sample for testing prior to drenching to give you a starting point.

Pricing: All Prices GST Inc


Standard Test (Mob Average) First Standard test $33 others sent with same kit $27.50
Premium Test (10 samples Average and Range) $50 each
Liver Fluke Test (per mob) $30 each
Genetic Testing: 

  50+ samples

$3.85 each

 

If you only have a few animals to test you may wish to use our standard or premium test. In the case of the Premium Test you would receive results on up to 10 individual Alpacas which we can associate names or ID's to if required.  For example you may have 5 Alpaca. You could use our Standard Test and get an average worm burden for the mob. Alternativley by using our premium test you would receive the 5 individual results. Individual names of each Alpaca are matched to the sample number in the report, enabling you to see exactly which animals are handling worm pressures the best.

A StockWatch Worm Egg Count test will provide quick turn around mob average or individual worm egg counts, that will help you decide if you need to drench or if your current drenching program is effective.

For the fastest results simply download a request form, fill in the details and send with your sample/s to StockWatch Reply Paid 423 Temora NSW 2666.

Or order a free StockWatch Kit which includes everything you need to test 1 to 4 mobs. Kits contain sample collection instructions and a request form, a guide to egg counts and drenching is included.

Still unsure - We are always available to discuss results or answer queries. Contact us

The majority of our work comes from repeat clients and through word of mouth from our happy customers. Feel free to forward our link to a friend Link.

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        Test Options        Pricing

Don't be left in the fog - Test before you drench, then every drench descision will be clear!  

 

            What does it Cost?

    Horse Worm Test:

     First Test $33....others    sent with same kit $27.50

Additional Testing:

Liver Fluke Test (per Animal/ mob)$30

 

Sample Collection 

 

 

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