Helpful tips for deworming

When horses with parasites are turned out to pasture their droppings can infect the grass for several feet around the pile. Contributed Photo

While worms are something horse owners must take seriously throughout the year, summer is an especially critical time. Because horses are more likely to graze on pasture during the summer months, the risk of contracting parasites is increased. When horses with parasites are turned out to pasture their droppings can infect the grass for several feet around the pile. This can put other grazers in contact with parasites.

Jessica Pierce has a bachelors of science in equestrian studies and strongly believes in a good deworming program. "If you want to keep your horse healthy and with a nice hair coat, you need to have a deworming schedule," she said.

Some horses that have unhealthy parasite levels appear fine on the outside. In many horses this is not the case. Some signs of dangerous parasite levels include hair or weight loss, loss of appetite, rough or dull hair coat, and decreased energy or stamina.

Pierce is in charge of the deworming program at her husband's training facility, Bill Pierce Cutting Horses. "Your vet can help you choose the right schedule for your farm. He or she can also give you helpful tips and different techniques for deworming," Pierce said.

When beginning a deworming program, it is always important to discuss it with your veterinarian. Products vary from paste to gel, pellets, and tubing. Depending on your horse's temperament and needs, any could be appropriate. Your vet can help you determine the correct products to use and how often they should be administered.

Some factors that may dictate the type of program you need include climate, environment, how often your horses are in pasture, and the number of horses you have. Whether you deworm yourself, or have your veterinarian do it for you, always keep a record of the horse, the deworming agent used, and the date. This will help you stick to a schedule.

Deworming programs for boarding and training facilities are different than those for a single-horse barn. These barns often have a high turnover with new horses constantly in and out of the barn. This means an increased risk for parasites, and deworming may need to be done more often.

Parasites can eventually develop resistance to many of the deworming agents out there. You can help keep this from happening by rotating the types of drugs you use. "It's so important to rotate products," Pierce said. "Some kill certain types of parasites, while others kill different types of parasites."

There are many brands out there and some contain the same effective ingredients. Be sure that you aren't just changing the name of the product, but the type of drug in the product. Consulting your veterinarian can help clear up any confusion.

Starting a deworming program and sticking to it will surely mean a happier, healthier horse. "If you stick to your schedule, you'll find that your horse feels better and looks better," Pierce said. Your horse will certainly appreciate your efforts!

This article originally appeared in the RAMM Fencing and Stalls monthly, e-newsletter. RAMM Fencing and Stalls is one of the leading farm and barn equipment providers in the equine industry. RAMM is committed to customer service, quality products and thorough follow-up. For more information, visit www.rammfence.com or call 1.800.434.8065.

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