Parasite Prevention And Control
As part of our veterinary practice’s commitment to provide comprehensive medical care for horses, we gladly offer a full-service parasite prevention and control program.
Parasites can be a significant problem in horses. Some horses can have a parasite infection but show no outward evidence, whereas other horses can develop clinical signs ranging from mild illness to severe, life-threatening disease, such as colic (abdominal pain) and colitis (diarrhea). All horses are at risk for exposure to parasites through daily activities such as grazing in a pasture and living in confined stable/barn conditions with other horses. Even horses that appear normal and healthy can be infected and shed parasite eggs by the millions in their manure, contaminating the environment and infecting other horses. Several deworming products are available for parasite control and prevention in horses. We know the parasites in your geographic region and your horse’s environment and can design a parasite control regimen that will provide optimal protection for your horse.
How Does Our Program Work?
As part of our full-service parasite control program, we can test a manure sample for evidence of parasites. Based on the results, we can prescribe an appropriate dewormer for treatment. Even if the test result is negative, we can structure an individualized deworming program to prevent parasites in your horse, based on many factors, including lifestyle and travel habits.
Regular veterinary examinations and parasite testing are important ways to protect your horse’s health. Our knowledgeable staff can provide you with a comprehensive parasite control program. We can recommend a schedule for parasite testing, discuss what signs of parasites you should look for in your horse, review ways to control parasites in and around your horse’s environment (e.g., regular manure removal from the pasture), discuss safe and effective treatment options if your horse has parasites, and recommend ways to control and prevent parasites in the future.
Parasites are not just a nuisance. They can cause serious illness that affects your horse’s overall health, body condition, and longevity. We can help you protect your horse. Call today to find out how!
