Horse Parasites

All horses suffer from internal parasites to a degree. In order to keep the infestation to a minimum, and so to have a healthy and economically kept horse, regular precautions must be taken these precautions are divided into two areas: care of the pasture;care of the horse.

Good grassland management is the first stage in controlling horse parasites as the worm larvae are ingested by the horse on infected grass.

The effect of an infestation of internal parasites in the horse can be very serious. At best it can cause discomfort for the horse and expense to the owner, at worst it can cause death. Foals and young horses are particularly at risk. In order to keep internal parasites to the minimum the horse must be dosed regularly withal 'wormer'. This is a chemical which can he administered by any horse owner. It breaks into the life cycle of the parasite whilst it is in the horse and so reduces the effects of the worm and prevents it completing its life cycle. There are many brands of wormer on the market; all are given orally either in the food or by syringe into the horse's mouth. It is recommended that patent wormers are changed from time to time, as some parasites may develop an immunity to a particular brand.

The veterinary surgeon can make tests to assess the degree of infestation from which a horse may be suffering and consequently prescribe the treatment. It is usually an advantage to seek his advice in the first instance.