Autumn and winter worming

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This article has been very kindly supplied by Ben Gaskell, Pfizer’s veterinary advisor

Autumn and winter worming

During the autumn and early winter the focus of any responsible and sustainable worming programme should be on the management of tapeworm and encysted small redworm – neither of which show up in a standard FWEC. Ben Gaskell, Pfizer’s veterinary advisor explains how these parasites can be tackled to best effect.

The truth about tapeworm

Tapeworms are very common in UK horses^1,2, but their definitive life cycle is still not completely understood. What we do know is that tapeworm infection can be linked to potentially serious colic³. We also know that a faecal worm egg count won’t definitively identify a tapeworm burden and that not all wormers are effective against this parasite.

Although tapeworm infection shows no strong seasonality, exposure is greater during periods of prolonged grazing.  Consequently, treatment should be undertaken in the autumn following summer turnout on pasture⁴, with repeat treatments usually recommended every six months⁵.

The treatment for tapeworm in horses involves either a double-dose of a pyrantel-based wormer or a wormer containing praziquantel. The latter is regarded as offering an effective single dose treatment for the control of equine tapeworms.

The time-bomb effect of encysted small redworm

Encysted small redworm larvae may account for up to 90% of the redworm burden in your horse⁶. Even if the horse has shown a negative or low count it could still be harbouring several million of these dormant parasites, hidden within the gut wall⁷.

Encysted small redworm can remain dormant inside a horse for up to two years, but they usually ‘wake-up’ in the late winter or early spring, developing and emerging from the gut wall all at the same time. In severe infestations this can lead to a disease syndrome known as ‘larval cyathostominosis’, causing diarrhoea and colic with up to a 50% mortality rate⁷. Treating encysted small redworm successfully in the late autumn or early winter is important in order to minimise this serious risk.

Moxidectin is recognised as the only single dose treatment for encysted small redworm. It has been shown to kill the larvae in-situ, without resulting in severe inflammation of the gut wall that other multi-dose treatments may cause⁸. In addition, Moxidectin is licensed for persistent activity against small redworms, killing larvae ingested as the horse grazes for up to two weeks after treatment.

1.             Lyon S et al, Veterinary Record (1995) 147, 456-457

2.             Owen RH et al, Veterinary Record (1998) 123, 562-563

3.             Proudman CJ Journal of Equine Veterinary Science (2003) 23 (1) 6-9

4.             Proudman CJ et al Equine Veterinary Journal (1998) 30 (3) 194-199

5.             Proudman and Matthews, In Practice (2000) 22, 90-97

6.             Bairden K. et al (2001) Veterinary Record 148, 138-141

7.             Dowdall S.M.J. et al (2002) Veterinary Parasitology 106, 225‑242

8.             Steinbach T. et al (2006) Veterinary Parasitology 139, 115‑131

EQUEST and EQUEST PRAMOX are registered trademarks of Pfizer Ltd. EQUITAPE is a registered trademark of Bayer Ltd. EQUEST contains moxidectin and EQUEST PRAMOX contains moxidectin and praziquantel. EQUITAPE contains praziquantel. Advice on the use of these or alternative treatments must be sought from the medicine prescriber POM-VPS. Further information from Pfizer Animal Health, Pfizer Ltd, Walton Oaks, Dorking Road, Walton-on-the-Hill, Tadworth, Surrey  KT20 7NS

Use medicines responsibly: www.noah.co.uk/responsible

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Equine wormers and their distinct chemical groups

FEBENDAZOLE & MEBENDAZOLE BASED WORMERS

Fenbendazole & Mebendazole based products are used less and less nowadays in routine worming as there is confirmed resistance to them. In some cases they still have a role to play when used as part of a rotational system but so it is best to take expert advice before relying on products within that group to control worm burden. Ascertain that your horse is infected with worms that are susceptible to it by taking a dung sample and having an egg count done.. By using a 5-day course  of a fenbendazole-based wormer  between October and March small redworm encysted larvae acquired during the grazing season will be removed. If an early dosage is administered this treatment can be repeated again in February to remove larvae acquired during the winter months. This will also help reduce the levels of infective larvae on the pasture the following spring.

MOXIDECTIN BASED WORMERS 

A Moxidectin based wormer has an ability to kill encysted developing cyathostome larvae (small redworm) in a single standard dose. Studies have indicated that the ingredient Moxidectin, suppresses egg reappearance and therefore leads to a long dosing interval for small redworm control. Moxidectin based Wormers are  also effective against large redworm, pinworms, stomach worms, Intestinal threadworms, Ascarids ( adult and larval stages) and will also treat for bots.

IVERMECTIN BASED WORMERS 

Worms are an ever-present threat even during winter months. Worms can survive frost and snow so even a short time on pasture during winter months can be enough for horses to pick up a new infection. Used routinely throughout the winter months, lvermectin based wormers will reduce the risk of infestation. The interval between treatments can be up to 10 weeks and in a single dose it will give effectiveness against both larval and adult stages of the important parasites of horses, including small redworms. lvermectin based Wormers control parasites that are resistant to benzimidazole-based wormers. Ivermectin based wormers control Pinworms, Intestinal Threadworms, Large-mouthed stomach worms, Lungworms, Neck threadworms and Ascarids.
lvermectin based Wormers will also control bots when given as a single dose.

PYRANTEL BASED WORMERS 

Products based on Pyrantel are effective against most adult roundworms so have a role to play in rotational worming. They need to be administered at twice the standard dose when being used for the treatment of tapeworm. If your horse is stabled on straw or other products where mites can survive then this double dose twice a year will ensure adequate control of tapeworm infestations. The Tapeworm lifecycle is 6 months so although treatment once a year (late September/early October) may well be adequate in some cases it is recommended that you do treat twice per year to break the cycle.

A new study has shown that 69% of horses have a tapeworm burden and horse with tapeworm are up to 8 times more likely to suffer from colic. The timing of the tapeworm control doses is based on the life cycle of the worms.

PRAZIQUANTEL BASED WORMERS 

Products using praziquantel can be a very effective treatment for all three known species of equine tapeworm in a single dose, again being most effective twice a year. Products that contain ivermectin as well as praziquantel  can be used all year as they are also an effective treatment against bots and round worms. Products that contain only praziquantel as the active ingredient give owners the option of treating for tape worm without also treating for roundworm thus helping to reduce the risk of equine anthelmintic resistance building up. This should still be as part of a annually rotated worming scheme with the other distinct chemical groups but care should be taken with regard to encysted small redworm larvae where a treatment using a 5-day course of a fenbendazole-based product or a Moxidectin based product should be considered.

Simon E-SQP

www.wormers-direct.co.uk

advice@wormers-direct.co.uk

Equine wormers and their distinct chemical groups

wormers-direct.co.uk

FEBENDAZOLE & MEBENDAZOLE BASED WORMERS

Fenbendazole & Mebendazole based products are used less and less nowadays in routine worming as there is confirmed resistance to them. In some cases they still have a role to play when used as part of a rotational system but so it is best to take expert advice before relying on products within that group to control worm burden. Ascertain that your horse is infected with worms that are susceptible to it by taking a dung sample and having an egg count done.. By using a 5-day course  of a fenbendazole-based wormer  between October and March small redworm encysted larvae acquired during the grazing season will be removed. If an early dosage is administered this treatment can be repeated again in February to remove larvae acquired during the winter months. This will also help reduce the levels of infective larvae on the pasture the following spring. 

MOXIDECTIN BASED WORMERS 

A Moxidectin based wormer has an ability to kill encysted developing cyathostome larvae (small redworm) in a single standard dose. Studies have indicated that the ingredient Moxidectin, suppresses egg reappearance and therefore leads to a long dosing interval for small redworm control. Moxidectin based Wormers are  also effective against large redworm, pinworms, stomach worms, Intestinal threadworms, Ascarids ( adult and larval stages) and will also treat for bots.

IVERMECTIN BASED WORMERS 

Worms are an ever-present threat even during winter months. Worms can survive frost and snow so even a short time on pasture during winter months can be enough for horses to pick up a new infection. Used routinely throughout the winter months, lvermectin based wormers will reduce the risk of infestation. The interval between treatments can be up to 10 weeks and in a single dose it will give effectiveness against both larval and adult stages of the important parasites of horses, including small redworms. lvermectin based Wormers control parasites that are resistant to benzimidazole-based wormers. Ivermectin based wormers control Pinworms, Intestinal Threadworms, Large-mouthed stomach worms, Lungworms, Neck threadworms and Ascarids.
lvermectin based Wormers will also control bots when given as a single dose.

PYRANTEL BASED WORMERS 

Products based on Pyrantel are effective against most adult roundworms so have a role to play in rotational worming. They need to be administered at twice the standard dose when being used for the treatment of tapeworm. If your horse is stabled on straw or other products where mites can survive then this double dose twice a year will ensure adequate control of tapeworm infestations. The Tapeworm lifecycle is 6 months so although treatment once a year (late September/early October) may well be adequate in some cases it is recommended that you do treat twice per year to break the cycle.

A new study has shown that 69% of horses have a tapeworm burden and horse with tapeworm are up to 8 times more likely to suffer from colic. The timing of the tapeworm control doses is based on the life cycle of the worms.

PRAZIQUANTEL BASED WORMERS 

Products using praziquantel can be a very effective treatment for all three known species of equine tapeworm in a single dose, again being most effective twice a year. Products that contain ivermectin as well as praziquantel  will treat for tapeworm and are an effective treatment against bots and round worms. Products that contain only praziquantel as the active ingredient give owners the option of treating for tape worm without also treating for roundworm thus helping to reduce the risk of equine anthelmintic resistance building up. This should still be as part of a annually rotated worming scheme with the other distinct chemical groups but care should be taken with regard to encysted small redworm larvae where a treatment using a 5-day course of a fenbendazole-based product or a Moxidectin based product should be considered.

Sweet Itch in horses

The exciting new sweet itch solution

Z-Itch is the exciting new product from Trilanco. Unveiled recently at the 2011 BETA conference in Birmingham, Z-itch is set to revolutionise the way sweet itch is treated. Comes in easy, ready to use pour on solution.
Severe horse itch gives rise to hair loss, skin problems, weeping sores and sometimes secondary infections. The response to midge bites varies with each horse.

There is at present no known fully effective treatment for Sweet Itch once lesions have occurred. Prevention and management are the top priorities – keeping Culicoides midges away from your horse; and mitigating the effects of midge bites. Techniques are varied. Z-itch hopes to change all this by providing a lotion capable of taming sweet itch and controlling it through the sweet itch season to allow you and your horse to enjoy the summer. Sweet itch is an allergic skin disease. Certain horses are allergic to the saliva in the bite of a species of midge called cullicoides. Once a horse is bitten it will have an allergic reaction at the site of the bite.

Dosage and Administration Guide:
Zitch is a ready-to-use, pour-on solution that should be administered at the rate of 4mg/kg bodyweight, equivalent to 1.0ml per 10kg body weight to a maximum of 40ml.
Dosage Guidelines:
Weight Dose Weight Dose Weight Dose
100 kg 10 ml 250 kg 25 ml 400 kg 40 ml
200 kg 20 ml 300 kg 30 ml >500 kg 40 ml
Application guide:
Apply the measured dose in approximately equal proportions to the mane and rump avoiding the saddle area. Treatment should be started at the beginning of the sweet itch season and repeated as necessary – treatment once weekly should be sufficient for most horses.
If horses and donkeys are to be groomed, apply the product after grooming. Do not treat the saddle area. The product must not be applied forward of the ears. Take care to avoid eye contact. In case of accidental splashing into the horse's eye, the affected eye should be washed thoroughly and immediately with copious quantities of clean water and veterinary attention sought.


Z-itch is a ready-to-use, pour-on solution containing Permethrin 40mg/ml (cis:trans 80:20) which aids in the control of sweet itch in horses and donkeys, It should be administered at the rate of 4mg/kg body weight, equivalent to 1.0ml per 10kg body weight to a maximum of 40ml.
Active Ingredient:
Permethrin 40mg/ml (cis:trans 80:20)

Protection of Operators:
Wear protective clothing, boots and chemically resistant gloves such as rubber, PVC or nitrile when applying the product. Wash splashes from skin and eyes immediately. When using the product do not eat, drink or smoke. Wash hands and exposed skin before eating, drinking or smoking and after work. Use in a well ventilated area. Keep away from food, drink and animal feedingstuffs.
If signs of disease persist or appear, consult a veterinary surgeon.
Protection of Consumers:
Not to be used on horses intended for human consumption. Treated horses may never be slaughtered for human consumption. The horse must have been declared as not intended for human consumption under the national horse passport legislation.Disposal:
Dangerous to fish and other aquatic life. Do not contaminate ponds, waterways or ditches with the
product or used container. Dispose of any unused product and empty containers in accordance with guidance from your local waste regulation authority.
 
Aids in the control of sweet itch in horses and donkeys. Treatment should be started at the beginning of the sweet itch season, weekly application should be sufficient for most horses. A ready to use, pour-on solution. Legal Category: AVM-GSL.

Herbs for Horses

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Herbs
 

Seaweed -For a healthy musculo-skeletal system.

Seaweed is a rich source of trace minerals that aid in cartilage and connective tissue formation. It is generally recommended for growing and performance horses.The trace mineral composition of Seaweed helps the horse increase its anti-oxidation activity during and after exercise.
For animal use only, do not give to mares in foal. 900gms. 

Thyme Powder - Has a wide variety of herbal uses but most often used to relieve the respiratory system.

In addition to respiration Thyme is also used as a calmer and a condition pick me up for old, tired or show horses. For animal use only, do not give to mares in foal. 750gms.

Rosehips - For healthy hoof growth and as a source of vitamin C.

Rosehips are a source of natural biotin, vitamin C and other nutrients which promote healthy hoof growth.
Due to the high vitamin C content Rosehips are often used when bringing a horse back from illness. 750gms.

Chaste Tree Berries - To nutritionally help support mares prone to hormonal temperament problems.

Chaste Tree Berries are well documented for the support of mares hormonal cycles and to calm the mare’s behaviour prior to its “season”.
Mares exhibiting performance problems during oestrus have also benefited from receiving Chaste Tree.
For animal use only, do not give to mares in foal. 750gms.

Comfrey Leaf - For natural nutritional maintenance of a healthy skeletal system.

Comfrey has been known through the years as a medicinal plant, as a source of vitamin B12 and protein.
In medieval medicine comfrey is often mentioned as one of the main herbs for treating fractures which is why it got the name “knitbone”.
Comfrey leaf is also known for treating muscle cramping, fatigue and general weakness.
Do not feed to mares in foal or with other Comfrey products. 600gms.

 Nettle - For the nutritional maintenance of a healthy skin and coat.

This herb contains high levels of vitamins and minerals essential for a healthy skin and coat.
Nettles are primarily diuretic and blood cleansing therefore often used for laminitis and arthritis.
It is also excellent for horses competing in very strenuous or power demanding activities.
For animal use only, do not give to mares in foal. 750gms.

Chamomile - Used as a calmer for horses.

Chamomile if often used as a sedative for horses that are highly strung due to nervousness and stress.
For animal use only, do not give to mares in foal. 750gms.

Devils Claw Root - For the nutritional maintenance of the musculo-skeletal system and the inflammatory response.

The anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect if Devils Claw have been reported to be equal to cortisone and phenylbutazone without the noted side effects such as gastric ulceration
For animal use only, do not give to mares in foal. 550gms.

Aniseed - For healthy digestion, respiration in all horses and hormonal cycles in mares.

It is reported that Aniseed has been used successfully to treat poor appetite and digestive disorders like colic.
Aniseed has expectorant properties and is often recommended for horses with chronic coughs.
Aniseed also has estrogenic activity and can be used to help normalize oestrus in mares. 750gms.

 Cut Dandelion - For the nutritional maintenance of the horses hepatic system.

Dandelion is diuretic as well as a rich source of potassium, magnesium, calcium and vitamins SA, C and B complex.
Dandelions will help cleanse the blood in horses after exercise and provide needed levels of potassium, magnesium and calcium during exercise.
For animal uses only, do not give to mares in foal. 1kg.

Echinacea - Most well known for its action in strengthening the immune system.

Echinacea is a very effective immuno-stimulant. It provides antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, immuno-stimulant and wound healing properties.
Echinacea has proven to be highly effective as a prophylactic against infection in horses that are constantly exposed to viruses and bacterial agents.
For animal use only, do not give to mares in foal. 550gms.

Celery Seed - For healthy digestion and stiffness.

Acting on the digestive system Celery Seed provides an internal warming effect. It is useful for horses that have become ‘run down’ as a result of transportation, overwork and exposure to cold.
Celery Seed is often used to relieve joint stiffness and can be good following a hard workout or for horses withrheumatism and arthritis. 750gms. 

Milk Thistle - To nutritionally support and maintain liver function.

Liver protection and stimulation of detoxification are both benefits of feeding Milk Thistle to horses.
Also used for regeneration of damaged liver tissue and protection against toxins and disease.
This herb is rich in anti-oxidents.
For animal use only, do not give to mares in foal. 750gms.

 Mint - For a healthy digestive system and to increase appetite.

Mint contains flavinoids that act to relax the digestive tract and is commonly used as a digestive aid.
Horses also find the aroma and taste of mint to be particularly appealing.
For animal use only, do not give to mares in foal. 1kg.

 

The Red Mite and the effect on Poultry

The red mite (Dermanyssus gallinae) is approximately 1mm long and is a brown/grey colour but becomes red after feeding on the blood of its host. Red mites do not live on the birds themselves but can usually be found in crevices and the roof of the hen house. At night the red mites come out to feed on the roosting birds and their nocturnal behaviour can make them hard to spot.

Signs of red mite infestation include anaemia which can be seen as pale combs and wattles, a drop in egg production, eggs with blood spots on the shell and general unthriftyness or distress. Upon close inspection of the hen house a whitish-grey powder can often be found in crevices or other hiding places. Red mite can live for up to 6 months without feeding so it's important when buying second hand hen houses or introducing new birds that the hen house is treated for red mite. There are numerous treatments on the market ranging from chemical based treatments to completely organic products, whichever product is used it is important to follow the instructions carefully and to ensure that every nook and cranny is thoroughly treated. Also don't forget about the poultry run, this can often be a favourite hiding place for red mite too. Remember, that whatever product is used it is only the adult red mite that will be killed therefore   it is essential to repeat the treatment about a week later to kill any recently hatched eggs. Although red mite are virtually impossible to eradicate completely you can help to prevent them from becoming a threat to your birds by being vigilant and treating the problem promptly.

Various products are available for this issue
http://stores.ebay.co.uk/Bardsey-Mills-Horse-Pet-Supplies?_trksid=p4340.l2563

British Equestrian Trade Association

I should be at the BETA (British Equestrian Trade Association) Council meeting today but with 2 of my 3 staff away I just cannot get there and will miss both meeting my industry colleagues and helping to promote the Equine community.  BETA works tirelessly for the membership and to provide safe shopping channels for the UK rider and it is pleasure to be a part of it both as a member and sitting on the Council.


BETA was formed in 1979 and has grown to be recognised and accepted as the official representative body for the equestrian manufacturing, wholesale and retail trade by Government and leading riding organisations.


 There are over 800 member companies, covering a wide range of businesses including not only retailers, wholesalers and manufacturers, but also agents, dealers and many service based businesses. All our members are involved in some way with equestrianism.


BETA are committed to the promotion of BETA members to the riding public, to on-going market research to inform both their members and the wider equestrian industry on the state of the market and horse riding as a leisure activity.