Why did my sheep die suddenly? Could it be Barber Pole Worms?

Question

My sheep passed away suddenly overnight, he was a bottle fed twin who was rejected. He had “bottle neck” and was treated for it and the fluid build up had disappeared almost immediately and he began to eat grass recently. He was up to date on shots and was seen almost daily along with the herd by our vet. We’re unsure what caused his sudden death but didnt preform an autopsy. He was in a separate pen beside the others with one other male who is healing from a broken pelvis. What could cause this. Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | Male | neutered | 2 months and 26 days old | 40 lbs

Dr. Paula Simons · Accepted Answer

With all the information you have provided, this situation sounds very suspicious of a Barber Pole Worm infection, also known as haemonchus contortus. It is a parasite that infects the digestive tract and feeds off the the sheep's blood. Sheep can become anemic and die very quickly. My recommendation is to have your veterinarian perform fecal sampling on your herd. If eggs are present in the feces for this parasite your veterinarian will need to reassess your parasite control program.

Why did my sheep die suddenly? Could it be Barber Pole Worms?

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