There are many species of worm that can live inside a horse, but they can be grouped according to their life cycles, consequences to the horse, and susceptibility to drugs. Small Strongyles (Redworms) These small red worms are probably the group that pose the greatest threat to your horse’s health, although strangely the adults cause [...]

The detection of worms, and estimation of their number (the worm burden) is important in diagnosing animals with disease, and also in monitoring worm control programmes.  The staple of detection is known as the Faecal Egg Count, or Worm Egg Count (FEC/WEC).  This is performed on fresh faeces, and looks for worm eggs, the theory [...]

We must now look at designing a programme to control parasite related disease in horses, so what are our objectives? Prevent disease causing levels of worms to infect the horse Keep tapeworm numbers low Prevent large strongyle infection Prevent pinworm infection Prevent larval cyathostominosis Prevent resistance to worming drugs developing Keep pasture from becoming contaminated [...]

The trade names of commonly available wormers are on the right hand side, so find your wormer there.  You’ll then be able to see the actual drug it contains, what worms it will kill, and its persistence.  The persistence is how long it will remain active for after dosing, for example, Ivermectin containing wormers will [...]

This is a typical worming programme for a small to medium livery yard, where the majority of owners will follow the plan.  It assumes that some pasture management is employed, but that it is not ideal.  In a yard with every horse following the programme, and excellent pasture management, then the number of Faecal Egg [...]