Parasite and Pest Prevention
Written protocols should be in place and reviewed annually with your veterinarian and employees to ensure that certain procedures are carried out appropriately.
How to assess:
Review the parasite and pest prevention protocol to confirm that the following information is included and that appropriate criteria are being met:
Dairy Well
- Plan for parasite prevention must exist but can be minimal depending on the management system and parasite challenge
- Must specify age group and the treatment provided (product type and practice)
- Must include meat and milk withdrawal time for both internal and external parasite products
- Signed by VOR
A template is provided as a guideline; farms may write their own as long as minimum content is met.
National Dairy FARM Program
- Practice routine sanitation and proper ventilation of all facilities
- Use chemical insecticide controls such as sprays to rid herd of parasites, pests and flies where appropriate
- Avoid feed areas to avoid contamination
- Encourage maintenance of natural biological controls (i.e. beetles) that will kill pests
- Use topical chemical controls, such as insecticides, and follow label instructions
- All dogs and cats on the property must be kept up to date on rabies and flea medication
Validus
- Pest control program (flies, birds, rodents, etc.) should effectively minimize signs of pests throughout facilities
- Parasite program must be implemented
There is no practice protocol for parasite prevention.