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The article reports on the availability of a parasite control planner (PCP) and forecasting service that can assist farmers in the challenge of managing parasites in the face of drench resistance and higher rainfall in England.

The article reports on the effectiveness of the test and dip method for controlling livestock scab. Scab resistance to injectable has been noted which should encourage British farmers to adopt new testing methods and return to old dipping routines. Farmers and contract dippers were reminded that other methods of administering OP are illegal. It is noted that injectable will remain as they will still be used for future scab and worm control.

The article discusses findings from a review of compulsory organophosphates (OP) sheep dipping to tackle sheep scab, conducted by the Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs (Defra) of Great Britain. Topics tackled are the human health effects of compulsory dipping and farmers' access to lost medical records in the 1990s which can confirm the rationale for ending compulsory sheep dipping.

The article reports on figures released by the British Pig Health Scheme which suggested pig worms as a continuous problem among producers. Specifically, 3.5 percent of pigs slaughtered are infected with endoparasites. In connection to this, pig producers are being urged to review their worming policies. The difficulty in spotting symptoms is considered a central problem with worm infestation.

The article offers facts about pig worms and some products available for addressing the problem.

The article offers information on the Sustainable Control of Parasites in Sheep (SCOPS) three-step plan for all bought-in sheep and those returning from tack. According to Pfizer veterinarian Dave Gilbert, by following the SCOPS plan, farmers can minimise the risk to their flocks from both sheep scab and anthelmintic-resistant worms. First, all new and returning sheep should be yarded for 24 to 48 hours while they are treated. Second, all sheep should be treated with an injectable macrocyclic lactone medication and a levamisole drench.

The article reports on the increase in parasitic disease levels in cattle across the West Country, England. Parasitic pneumonia increased double the normal level while gut worm scour levels were nine times higher. Veterinarian Andrew Davies states that the coming of a wet summer may lead to an upsurge in fluke. Veterinary surgeon Jonathan Harwood suggests to farmers to continue worming until the grass stopped growing as well as watch for resistance to some wormers.

The article presents the opinion of veterinarians concerning various veterinary issues in Great Britain. Steve Borsberry states the importance of choosing an appropriate individual management system for worming young stock. Iain Richards cites the need to discuss parasite control with veterinarians to address problems on worms with lambs. Julian Allen shares several plant poisoning cases in cattle.

The article reports on the threat posed by drug resistance of parasitic gut worms to the British sheep industry according to Michael Stear of Glasgow University Veterinary School in Scotland. Worm infection was estimated to cost the Scottish industry £16 million a year. Studies are being conducted to highlight possible remedies including genetics, better grazing management, biological control and supplementary feeding.

The article reports on the results of the analysis of the degree of anthelmintic resistance of worms in sheep flocks in Wales conducted by the Wales Worm Watch. Resistant nematodes were found in 83 percent of samples collected on 125 farms. The study indicated that the drenching practices adopted by farmers were not effective despite recommendations to reduce their reliance on anthelmintics. The group is encouraging farmers to consult their veterinarian to discuss parasite management.

The article reports on the effects of the ban on cypermethrin-based dips on the control of ectoparasite in sheep flocks in Great Britain. There was a significant increase in sheep scab rife in some areas and cases of lice infestation. The Sustainable Control of Parasites (SCOPS) expresses its concern over the slow development of anthelmintic resistance needed to protect the efficacy of the macrocyclic-lactones. The SCOPS gave some recommendations for sheep farmers on controlling both endo- and ectoparasite.

Reports on the lost of crucial growth potential of cattle following the failure of British beef producers to conduct worming at turnout according to a survey conducted by Pfizer Animal Health. Percentage of producers surveyed who used a strategic worming programme; Other effects of not worming at turnout.

Reports on the increased cases of sheep scabies according to data from the Scottish Agricultural College's (SAC) Maedi-Visna Accreditation Scheme. Increase in the percentage of flocks tested positive in 2002/03; Comments from Catriona Ritchie of the Sheep and Goat Health Scheme of SAC.

Reports on the link between outbreaks of sheep scan and flocks dipped or injected with endectocide in September 2003 in Great Britain. Comments from Neil Sargison of the Royal Dick Vet School; Strategies for scab control when dipping.

Presents information on products authorized for dipping sheep for and against scab in autumn 2003. Organophosphate and synthetic pyrethroid products approved to be used to dip sheep.

Reports on cases of husk-affected cattle grazed in Great Britain as of August 2003. Factors that have contributed to increased incidence of husk infection; Problems associated with grazing cattle in rotations.