Worming

Effective worm control relies on the correct and responsible use of wormers combined with good pasture management.

Similar to antibiotics, resistance to the drugs used in wormers is of growing concern, especially as there are no new drugs on the horizon. In order to preserve the wormers that we currently use for as long as possible, it is important that we move towards a diagnostic-led, risk-based approach to worming and only treat horses when we need to.

We can do this by using faecal worm egg counts, tapeworm saliva tests and worm risk assessments. This helps us to target the right type of worms at the right time of year.

Good pasture management such as regular poo picking, co-grazing with cattle/sheep and good stock density is also key to reducing worm burden in horses and reducing the risk of them needing treatment.

Speak to one of our vets about a suitable worming programme for your horse. We offer all diagnostic tests such as worm egg counts and tapeworm tests and we can carry out worm risk assessments to come up with a tailored programme for your horse.

Everything you need for a diagnostic-led, risk-based approach to worm control is included in the Horse Health Programme.