Sheep farmers are being encouraged to get advice from their SQP (Suitably Qualified Person) on new SCOPS (Sustainable Control of Parasites in Sheep) quarantine guidelines.
 
“The reasons for quarantine treating sheep has not changed,” says sheep vet, Kate Hovers, who has been training SQPs in implementing the new guidelines, “but farmers now have a wider range of options, making it easier to develop a strategy adapted to individual farms.
 
“The guidelines offer three levels of treatment – gold, silver and bronze, all of which will protect existing flocks,” explains Kate Hovers. “If a farm specialises in high-value tups, then the gold standard will be worthwhile. For a farm that buys and sells large numbers of sheep or finishes lambs, the silver or bronze might be more cost-effective,” she says.
 
“I would encourage farmers to take advantage of free advice from their SQP, and to ask plenty of questions to establish the right approach on their farm,” Kate Hovers continues, “Several hundred SQPs have received training in the new SCOPS guidelines since they were published earlier this year and many more have signed up to forthcoming AMTRA (Animal Medicines Training Regulatory Authority)/AHDA (Animal Health Distributors Association) CPD (Continuing Professional Development) Roadshow events through the year,” she concludes.
 
“The aim of quarantine treatments is to stop resistant worms coming on to a farm with new or returning sheep,” explains Lesley Stubbings of SCOPS. “This new approach offers a range of treatment options which will help SQPs create the best strategy for customers, including protection against the risk of sheep scab,” she concludes.