08/06/2026
I’m reposting this as I have shared this numerous times in hopes it helps breeders with this problem!
Barber pole worm—Haemonchus contortus—is something I take seriously on my farm, especially once the weather warms up. If you raise sheep, you already know how fast it can sneak up on you. One minute everything looks fine, and the next you’ve got sheep going downhill quicker than you’d
For me, it always starts with the little things:
Pale eyelids when I check FAMACHA
Sheep hanging back or just not acting right
Bottle jaw starting to show
Lambs that should be thriving… but aren’t
I’ve learned not to ignore those early signs. Catching it early makes all the difference.
How I Manage It
I don’t believe in just blanket deworming anymore. That used to be the way, but it catches up with you fast with resistance.
Instead, I try to stay ahead of it:
FAMACHA checks regularly I’m in my flock often, so I keep an eye on who actually needs help
Targeted treatment - Only the ones that need it get dewormed
Pasture management I move them before they graze too short. That’s where the trouble is
Good nutrition A strong sheep handles parasites better, plain and simple
Last year was a great example of that we didn’t have any issues across the flock, and I truly believe a big part of that was keeping our sheep on a high-protein program. It made a noticeable difference in their condition and overall resilience.
What I’ve Found Really Helps
One thing I’ve added into my routine is using Vitamin B Complex injection when I have a sheep that’s been hit.
It’s not a cure for worms but it really helps them bounce back:
Gets their appetite going again
Gives them a boost when they’re run down
Supports them while they recover from anemia
I’ve also started giving B Complex to lambs early on, and I really like what I’m seeing. It helps support their immune systems from the start, and especially as they begin to wean off their mothers that’s when stress really sets in. Giving them that extra support during that transition seems to help them stay stronger and handle that change a lot better.
Lambs Need Extra Attention
Lambs are where I stay the most alert. They don’t have the immunity yet, and barber pole worm can hit them hard and fast.
I make a point to:
Check them more often
Keep them on cleaner ground when I can. Keep grasses at 6 inches.
Step in early if something feels off
My Take on It at the end of the day, this is just part of raising sheep. Barber pole worm isn’t going anywhere—but it can be managed if you stay on top of it.
For me, it’s about paying attention, not overdoing treatments, and supporting my animals when they need it. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that strong nutrition especially high protein along with the right support at the right time, makes all the difference in keeping a healthy, thriving flock.
Reni McNabb Melvin
