Does the Early Bird Always Get the Worm?

When it comes to drenching calves for worms and managing coccidiosis, timing is everything. But in New Zealand—especially here in the Waikato—there’s still a lot we don’t know about the best time to start.

That’s why this spring 2025, our veterinary team is launching a regional study to help answer some of the most common questions we hear from local farmers:

• 🐄 When should I start drenching my calves for worms?
• 🌱 How do I know the level of worm contamination in my pasture?
• 🦠 What about coccidia—when should I be concerned?

Join Our Spring Parasite Study

We’re inviting farmers across the Waikato to participate in a collaborative study aimed at improving calf health and parasite management. As part of our Lepto vaccination visits, we’ll:

• Collect faecal samples from your calves
• Record management practices and drenching history
• Test for worm burden and coccidia presence

You’ll receive a personalised report with your farm’s results, and we’ll compile anonymised data across all participating farms to identify trends and best practices.

Why This Matters for Waikato Farmers

By participating, you’ll help us answer key questions and improve parasite control strategies for the entire region. The benefits include:

• ✅ Healthier, faster-growing calves
• ✅ Reduced drench resistance
• ✅ Better pasture utilisation
• ✅ Data-driven decision-making for your farm

Let’s Work Together

If you’d like to be part of this important study—or if you just want to chat about your calf drenching programme—we’re here to help.

📞 Contact your local clinic today to get involved or learn more.

Together, we can build a healthier future for our calves and our communities.