Practical aspects of equine parasite control: a review based upon a workshop discussion consensus.
Authors: Nielsen M K, Fritzen B, Duncan J L, Guillot J, Eysker M, Dorchies P, Laugier C, Beugnet F, Meana A, Lussot-Kervern I, von Samson-Himmelstjerna G
Journal: Equine veterinary journal
Summary
# Editorial Summary Anthelmintic resistance has become a significant problem across equine establishments, rendering traditional calendar-based deworming schedules ineffective and forcing a fundamental shift in parasite management philosophy. This consensus review, drawn from expert discussion at a 2008 French Equine Veterinary Association workshop, examines practical approaches to sustainable parasite control, with particular emphasis on detection methods and resistance management strategies. Although molecular and in vitro diagnostic assays show promise, faecal egg count reduction testing remains the only reliable method currently available for veterinary practice to detect resistance, and the authors recommend these tests be performed regularly to monitor treatment efficacy. The central strategy for combating resistance centres on maintaining parasite refugia—a concept requiring integrated consideration of treatment protocols, drug rotation schedules, and targeted pasture management to slow the development of resistant populations. Moving forward, practitioners must transition from reactive, routine dosing towards proactive surveillance of individual parasite burdens, with regular drug efficacy monitoring essential to preserve the longevity of remaining anthelmintic classes and ensure sustainable long-term parasite control.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Stop relying on fixed calendar-based deworming schedules; instead use faecal egg count testing to determine actual parasite burdens and treatment necessity
- •Perform faecal egg count reduction tests regularly on your horses to monitor whether your chosen anthelmintics are still working effectively on your property
- •Implement rotational grazing and strategic treatment timing that maintains some parasites in refugia (untreated horses/pastures) to slow resistance development, rather than treating all horses at once
Key Findings
- •Routine calendar-based prophylactic parasite treatment schemes are no longer reliable due to widespread anthelmintic resistance in equine parasites
- •Faecal egg count reduction test is currently the only reliable method available for detection of anthelmintic resistance in veterinary practice
- •Maintaining parasite refugia through strategic treatment and pasture management is key to managing anthelmintic resistance
- •Surveillance of parasite burdens and regular drug efficacy testing are essential components of sustainable parasite control strategies