Why only one bulk sample for the standard test?

Our standard test was developed for your ease of sample collection. Ie you are in the paddock and can quickly collect samples with one bag (from the glove box or from your pocket). At the lab we use this entire sample to get the results not just 2 or 3 grams. Our testing shows us that the results are very comparable to sending in 10 individual samples, it is important however when picking up samples for a standard test to try and get equal volumes of dung from each animal. Ie from each deposit collect one or two pellets or one teaspoon. If you wish- of course you can send in 10 individual animal samples to be tested as a standard test. If we receive samples this way for a standard test we weigh each sample prior to mixing ensuring a "true" average. A standard test will give a very good result and is an easy way to collect samples. 

I see white segments in dung do I have a bad worm problem?

Sure there are tapeworms present. But a common misconception is that when looking at a sample of dung some producers make their decision on the worm status of the animals based on the presence of  white "segments".  These white segments are small portions of tapeworm and whilst very visible they are only an indication of the presence of one type of worm. Yes they look bad but it is no indicator of the real worm burden. There are many other worms which are much smaller and their eggs can only be seen under a microscope, these worms have a much greater impact on the well-being of your livestock.

How do I interpret my results?

It is very difficult to give hard and fast rules on interpreting egg counts, as there are so many variables to consider. These include: Age of animals, adult dry animals in good condition tolerate worms much better than young or poor animals. Nutritional status, well nourished animals develop stronger immunity to worms faster and so withstand a worm challenge better than poorer animals. Sometimes moving animals onto a better paddock is as good as a drench. Physiological Status, are these animals young and growing, pregnant or rearing young? All factors that can place added stress on their systems and render them more susceptible to worm infestations. Young animals, such as weaners, are an important group to sample because they tend to be quite vulnerable to worms.

FURTHER ADVICE:

The table below offers a guide to egg counts and does differ on breed it is not hard and fast for many reasons, which include those stated above.  StockWatch suggests you contact your vet for the best advice.

What do my results mean?    epg (eggs per gram)

<200 epg - drench probably not required

200-500 epg - seek advice

>500 epg - drench probably required

Why monitor?

A worm test is much like a virus scan on your computer- testing for things that are hard to see before they become a real problem.

Do natural remedies work?

The best way to see is by a trial on your own property, test a sample, and treat with the selected product then 10 to 14 days later take another sample for testing to show the effectiveness of that remedy.

Do Alpaca’s suffer from worms if they use dung piles?

Short answer is yes. It pays to monitor routinely.

Running Horses which Test is right?

The best way to answer this is by offering a few senarios, one may be close to your situation, if not contact us and we'll assist.

1. Jane owns three Horses.  Her  retired gelding "Spark", her current eventing horse "Mystique" and  broodmare "Algebra". They all run together in one paddock. All three horses are under vastly different  nutritional pressures.  We would suggest that each Horse needs to be tested as individuals. A Standard test on each animal is the prefered test.  (Cost $33 + 2 @ 27.50 = $88)

2. Samantha has six horses in the same paddock. They have been running together since they were last drenched. A Standard Mob Average will give a cost effetcive indication of their status. (c0st $33)

3. Trevor runs an agistment property and is responsible for the health of the animals, he currently has 4 paddocks with 10 horses in each. He could use our Standard Mob average test for the 4 groups/paddocks. (cost $33+3 @ 27.50 = $115.50) or for information on all the Horses 4 premium tests ($200)  

Why do we use a "Standard"  test in Horses and do not offer a premium test as with Sheep etc.?

The name can be a bit decieving, however it comes down to the volume tested and the distribution of worm eggs in different animals. Using a StockWatch standard test we extract eggs from a greater volume of sample simply giving a better test for Horses.  The "Premium" test service is better suited to commercial grazing animals such as sheep, goats,etc, where numbers of animals in a paddock are usually much greater hence individual testing is not an option and eggs in a sample are generally more evenly distributed.