What wormer are you using this Spring?

[Sally-FF]

Hi

What wormer will you all be using this Spring? It has been a while since i last did it (very low risk) and can't remember! Want to do it over the next week or two if that helps?

Thanks

 

[lachlanandmarcus]

which one is right will depend on

whats been used in the past (ok lets say nothing if its been a while)
whether you are using worm counts to monitor most types of worm burden
whether you are planning to routinely worm for tapeworm or have the vet do a blood test

If no blood test for tapeworm and they havent been done in the autumn then they should def be wormed for tapeworm. Other worms - if you are getting 'nil' counts back on a worm count then the one you still need to worm once a year for is encysted redworm so that ought to be done as well, as otherwise they can all suddenly emerge and this can be fatal and they dont show up on worm counts in the encysted stage.

For tapeworm you could use pyrantel based products (Pyratape or StrongID-P) or praziquantel based (Equitape). Pyrantel is the older wormer, praziquantel the more recent introduction. Whichever one you use, you may want to switch to the other group next time you worm for tapeworm (or better still blood test for whether you need to worm at all for tapeworm)

For encysted redworm you could use Equest (moxedectin)or Panacur 5 Day Equine Guard (fenbendazole)

(I am avoiding suggesting combination wormers such as Equest Pramox, Equvalan Duo or Equimax) which treats both redworms and tapeworms in a single product because of the significant numbers of horses that seem to have bad reactions to such a powerful product, Pramox at least).

Dont worm if the horse is unwell, experiencing any major changes of routine/environment or if you are having their annual jabs done close to the worming date (the last caused my horse to get very sick indeed and he now cant have the flu jab).

NB before buying anything recommend you check out with a qualified adviser at one of the wormer retailers or with your vet as they are able to give you the best advice; the above is hopefully helpful start tho!