Tips on Caring for a Llama, DeWorming
Let’s talk about deworming your llama. You do need to deworm your llama at least every 3 months, using a rotation of wormer products. It is not advisable to use the same type of wormer every time, due to resistance developing. The vet can administer a shot of Dectomax once a year. This is needed, due to the Meningeal worm. I use several types of tube wormers for the other 3 wormings; Panacur, Ivermectin, Strongid, and Anthelcide. Dollie can be quite a handful when she even sees the tube coming her way. I get quite a workout, trying to hold Dollie and administer the tube of worm medicine. (Having a helper would make it easier) Do wear sturdy shoes, and expect to get dirty. It’s one way to work up a sweat, even during a Michigan winter. Recently, I found an Ivermectin powder that can be poured on the feed, so that is much easier. For the others, I use about half of a tube, with Dollie weighing about 400 lbs.
You can add your comments below. Share your worming ideas!
August 3rd, 2008 at 3:09 pm
Worming every 6 weeks with Dectomax is essential in our neck of the woods in MI due to the high traffic of white tail deer. As recommended on the site, always consult your vet first to see what is required for your area (keep in mind, overworming can be just as deadly as underworming). The first few years, we ran fecal tests every 6 months to see what the worm levels were in our animals. Every October, we noticed an increase and adjusted our oral worming to once a year in September. I will make a suggestion regarding the problem with oral worming Dollie. Try using Safeguard Liquid suspension. You will use a lesser dosage amount and the llamas seem to tolerate it much easier compared to the paste. Also, desensitizing all areas of your llama will make your life much easier when administering shots and wormers. There are several different training videos out there, i.e. John Mallon’s method and Clicker Training. Best of luck with your endeavors
Deb M.