Intestinal Parasite Testing
Intestinal worms and other parasires continue to plague many goat producers throughout the year. Internal parasites decrease growth rates and at high levels can cause death. Farmers and ranchers whose herds are infected with parasites pay higher costs to raise sick animals and earn less because of lower production. Economic losses occur not only when animals die, but also when they produce inferior offspring, meat, milk, etc.
At Texas Livestock Laboratory, we can perform intestinal parasite testing on almost any animal. We test cattle, sheep, goats, horses, cats, dogs, chickens, plus much more. We use the Modified Wisconsin Sugar Flotation Technique along with a centrifuge to be sure that no parasite eggs are missed. Please keep in mind that some parasites, like tapeworms, are not seen on fecal flotations.
Research has shown that animals should be tested before and after deworming. This will let you know how heavily your herd is infected with intestinal parasites and if your dewormer is working. Please consult with your veterinarian to discuss a deworming plan. Feces can easily be collected using a ziploc bag. Turn the bag inside out, place the bag on your hand like a glove, and pick up the feces. While still holding the feces, turn the bag right side out. You can then seal and label the bag.
Cattle/Goats /Sheep/Pigs
Individual testing of animals is the preferred method to determine parasite infection. However for those with large herds, group samples are more economical and time-effective. Farmers/ranchers should collect one sample per twenty head of each group of animals. For example, if you have 40 mothers in one pasture and 20 weaned yearlings in another, you should collect 2 samples from the mother’s pen and 1 sample from the yearling’s pen. It is also a good idea to collect from different locations such as near a water source, near a feeding area, inside creep pens, etc. For cattle and pigs collect a lime-sized amount per sample. For sheep and goats, collect about 5 pellets per sample.
Horses/Mules/Donkeys
Individual testing is the preferred method to determine parasite infection. Collect one lemon-sized amount of feces per horse.
Birds
Individual testing of animals is the preferred method to determine parasite infection. Although for those with larger flocks, group samples are more economical and time-effective. Collect one sample per 10 birds. Using a disposable teaspoon, collect the darkest part of the feces and avoid collecting the white part as much as possible.
Other Animals
Individual testing is the preferred method to determine parasite infection. Collect about 2 tablespoons per sample.
Sample Submission
Each sample should be individually labeled and double-bagged in leak-proof ziploc bags. Wrap the bag with paper towels, enough to absorb fluid if the bag opens.
Pack the bags with bubble wrap or paper inside a cardboard box. Please do not ship samples in plain or padded envelopes. Refrigerate samples until shipment and submit samples with an icepack. Testing should be completed within 48 hours of collection, so overnight or 2-day delivery is recommended. Additionally, samples can be left in the drop box at the lab. Be sure to include the submission form and payment. Results will be available the same day as arrival at the lab.
Payment is due at the time of service. Accepted forms of payment include checks or credit cards. Please make checks payable to Texas Livestock Lab.
Ship via USPS, UPS, or FedEx. Packages are accepted Monday-Saturday. Never require a signature for delivery. Shipping labels can be printed at home using sites like Pirate Ship. Write “Exempt Animal Specimen” on the exterior of the box.
Ship to:
Texas Livestock Laboratory
827 FM 197
Arthur City, Texas 75411
Drop Off
Packages may be placed in the drop-off box at the lab. Please text 903-495-8931 when you leave a package. Be sure to include payment with your samples. Please text 903-495-8931 for driving directions.
