Goat and Sheep Parasite Workshop - June 20

A “Sheep and Goat Parasite Workshop” is scheduled for 2 p.m. - 5 p.m., Thursday, June 20, at the Bond Agricultural Building, 2401 S. Kansas Expressway, Springfield, Mo.

"If you want to check your sheep or goats for fecal egg counts, you can learn how at this workshop," said Dr. Jodie Pennington, small ruminant educator with Lincoln University Cooperative Extension.

Dr. Charlotte Clifford-Rathert, state small ruminant specialist with Lincoln University, and Dr. Beth Walker, associate professor at Missouri State University, will conduct the workshop

Producers may bring a fecal sample for the fecal egg count demonstration if they want their animal or animals checked for worms. Dr. Clifford-Rathert will explain how to conduct fecal egg counts and how to check for FAMACHA scores.

Worms are the primary internal parasite of small ruminants and remain one of the biggest problems of meat and dairy goats.

“Internal parasites also can be a problem in sheep but not to the same extent as goats,” said Clifford-Rathert. “In order to control worms, you must set up a deworming and sanitation program and stick to it.”

Worms not only kill both young and old goats, they contribute to poor growth rates, an unthrifty appearance, coughing, diarrhea, and, in severe cases, bottle jaw.

David Burton, county program director for Greene County Extension, says the local council is happy to be able to support this type of workshop. “This is a needed workshop considering the growing area interest in goats and sheep,” said Burton. “There should be something for everyone who has in interest in controlling internal parasites in sheep and goats, whether hair or wool sheep and dairy or meat goats.”

Pre-registration is needed by June 17 but anyone can attend. The cost is $5 per person to cover workshop materials and snacks. The FAMACHA eye chart is an additional $15 per chart.

For more information or to pre-register, email  or call 417-327-6611.

(by David Burton, MU Civic Communications Specialist)