V. Karapetkovska – Hristova1*, D. Dzokoski2, I. Pavlovic3

1Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biotechnical Sciences, University “St. Kliment Ohridski”- Bitola, N. Macedonia
2Public Enterprise for Pastures, Skopje, N. Macedonia
3Scientific Institute of Veterinary Medicine of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia

(Manuscript received 5 May; accepted for publication 19 August 2024)

Abstract. The longstanding animal husbandry practices in small ruminants have led to the prevalence of various diseases, particularly parasitic infections. Among these, gastrointestinal helminthoses are widespread globally, exhibiting high prevalence and incidence rates, which contribute to significant morbidity and moderate mortality. The adverse pathogenic effects of parasites on the host organism result in clinically evident diseases and increased mortality, especially among younger animals, and also entail negative economic consequences. These consequences include reduced wool and milk production, poorer young animal rearing, and decreased overall body resistance, making animals more susceptible to other diseases. Our study focused on identifying optimal measures for controlling infections in small ruminants within the Mariovo District in the Pelagonia Region. We emphasized the crucial need for implementing these measures to protect small ruminant health and ensure production success. Integrating parasite control strategies, including systematic monitoring of infection rates, is essential for achieving these goals. These measures included determining optimal time of parasitological control of herds of small ruminants; optimal time of deworming; inspection of pastures before and during the grazing season; optimization of the way of use and eradication of pastures, monitoring of the achieved results. Conducted over the period of 2014-2022, this research yielded consistent results, highlighting the importance of combating parasitic diseases in this region