Think Before You Worm: a new campaign to tackle resistance

Equine internal parasite management plays a crucial role in maintaining horse health and welfare. In collaboration with the British Equine Veterinary Association, The British Horse Society has created their ‘Think Before You Worm’ campaign, which emphasises the importance of developing personalised de-worming plans for horses – it is based around regular testing and understanding of local management practices to combat the development of parasitic resistance. By following evidence-based recommendations and collaborating with horse owners and yard managers, vets can manage internal parasites successfully while preserving the effectiveness of anthelmintics.

It should not be forgotten that internal parasites have the potential to compromise the health and well-being of horses, and may also have a significant impact on equestrian businesses. Yard owners and managers can potentially face great reputational damage if their property develops populations of multiresistant worms, including a loss of clients and income as well as pasture that can no longer be used to graze horses. Once resistance develops on a property it cannot be reversed. Yard owners should do all that they can to protect their pasture and business by: