Investigating worm control measures

 Horses and foals can carry many different parasitic worms in their intestines, some of which can cause severe disease. 

 

 Over recent years it has become recognised that some of the more important worms are developing resistance to the anthelmintics (dewormers) that are used to control them.

 

The seriousness of the problem is highlighted by the fact that resistance to all currently available classes of anthelmintics has been reported in both the cyathostomins (small redworm) and ascarids (large roundworm). Furthermore, there is currently no prospect of any new drugs in the pipeline.

 

It is becoming accepted that we need to adopt a more sustainable approach to deworming.

 

In a letter to the Veterinary Record, Dr Tim Mair and colleagues announced the launch of a collaborative project (ProjectWORMS) which they hope will produce recommendations about the best and safest way to prevent serious worm infestations, whilst limiting the further development of resistance to wormers.

 

The first step is to investigate current thinking and management practices with two online questionnaires – one for horse owner/keepers and one for stud owner/managers. This information is important to be able to develop and promote new and alternative ways of controlling worms that do not add to the problem of anthelmintic resistance

 

Dave Rendle, President Elect of the British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) said: “BEVA are pleased to be able to support this important piece of work which will inform decision-making around anthelmintic stewardship going forward. Anthelmintic resistance presents a serious and imminent threat to the equine industry."

 

To take part in the online survey, and for more information, see:

For horse owners/keepers: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/WORMSowner

And 

For stud owners/managers: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/WORMSstud