>> Taking the guesswork out of worming

Here we answer some of your common questions.

Why should I use worm egg counts in my worming programme?
If you are using a full programme you can make sure it is effective. In many cases you will be able to replace some wormer doses with counts, cutting down on the amount of chemicals going into your horse and out onto the pasture. You can target the correct wormers at the horse who needs them instead of wasting doses on ‘clean’ horses.

I’ve heard that worm egg counts don’t show all the worms though?
That is quite correct. Nevertheless a worm count is still a very useful tool. Encysted stages of redworm are not mature so don’t lay the eggs which are counted in the dung sample. It is important to treat with an effective product in the winter months then you can rely on your worm count results over the next season. Tapeworm eggs often appear in dung samples but you still need to cover tapeworms in your plan as the test is not definitive. Alternately ask your vet for an ‘Elisa’ blood test.

I’m reluctant to give up regular worming, I’d rather be safe than sorry.
Following a complicated and expensive worming programme does not guarantee that your horse will be free of parasites. Westgate Labs test many horses who have been on worming programmes and still have medium or high worm count results.Growing resistance to some worming drugs means that they may not be effective for your horse. This can only get worse in years to come and there are no new worming drugs. Regular worm counts can identify parasite problems, sometimes only affecting one horse in a herd, so they can be correctly treated.

Isn’t it complicated to do?
Not at all! Westgate Labs make it very easy by providing a free collection kit and information pack.

Simply phone for yours: 01670 791994 or order online > here.

More and more people are basing their yearly programme on counts using the very economical 4count Healthcare season pack. Order yours here today. Not only that, there is full SQP back up and advice available so there is never any need to feel confused about what to do next.

Isn’t it expensive?
This is an important question. The main aim of using a worm count programme is to have a healthier horse with a well managed worming regime but one of the side benefits is that it is usually a less expensive option. Most people save money on worming by using a targeted programme, sometimes they save a lot. When you first start there may be a period when you need to both count and give a wormer for instance when a horse proves to have a parasite problem. Using tests means that the problem is recognised and being dealt with. We look in more detail at this question > here.

How can I keep track of a worm count programme?
Use the colourful free record card provided by Westgate Labs to record all worm counts and wormers given, with lots of helpful advice and information too, or visit www.westgatelabs.co.uk for more help. A yard record sheet is also available download here So, no more guess work needed, use worm counts and be sure your horse is properly wormed.