Did you know that equine parasites are developing a similar resistance to deworming products? According to researchers and veterinarians, this is "a real and serious dilemma for the equine industry.
" Small strongyles are resistant to benzimidazoles, tetrapyrimadines and piperazine.
Recent studies are hinting that parasites are beginning to develop resistant to ivermectin, as well, and researchers are urging that these compounds be used sparingly to prolong their effectiveness.
There are no new drenches on the horizon to combat these increasingly resistant parasites.
Horse owners should learn about this important issue and use dewormers wisely and effectively to ensure that they are not contributing to the problem of parasite resistance.
Your horse may or may not have parasites.
Do you know if he does? How many he has? Are their populations growing? Declining? If you can't answer these questions accurately, your deworming program may be unnecessary, ineffectual or worse.
Most horses have some amount of worms, and that's not necessary bad: low level parastite exposure is thought to keep a horse's natural immunity strong.
But a heavy parasite load can lead to complications, and it's important that you monitor your horse's parasite load.
The best way to determine the effectiveness of your deworming program is through testing.
Fecal Egg Count (FEC) tests are not difficult to perform at home.
A microscope and some basic testing supplies will allow you to monitor your horse closely.
We recommend that you:
- Test to determine types and quantity of parasites present;
- Choose your dewormer based on test results and physical signs and symptoms;
- Retest for resistance and/or effectiveness;
- Continue to test, adjust and observe.
A sensible and well-managed parasite control program will help protect our horses and keep them healthy and strong.