Summer OP dip will clear scab
Summer OP dip will clear scab
SUMMER OP dips should be considered for flocks which experienced lice and scab problems last winter, with the absence of sheep movements offering an opportunity to clear ectoparasites.
By treating all new stock and OP dipping this summer, many flocks will start next winter scab free, according to independent vet consultant Chris Lewis.
"Dips also offer better flystrike prevention as well as killing mites and lice, which persist on sheep during the summer months," says Mr Lewis.
"Over the past two years, lice outbreaks have reached near epidemic proportions, probably due to the move towards injectable and pour-on treatments – neither of which kill lice.
"Similarly, scab is widespread with the mite surviving the summer in the groin, tail head and ears," he says.
"In autumn, they migrate back on to the body to produce scab. Summer dipping mops up these residual mites as well as controlling lice."
Dipping should be undertaken three weeks after shearing to allow sufficient grease to accumulate on the skin, and wool regrowth to hold the active ingredient.
Mr Lewis also urges producers to assume that bought-in new sheep are infected with scab. They must be isolated and treated for scab with an injectable before mixing with the flock. *