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Internal Parasite Control Guidelines

Commonly used strategies for parasite control in adult horses are based largely on knowledge and concepts that are more than 50 years old. However, much has changed in this time, necessitating a re-examination of recommendations for parasite control.

In response to this need, the AAEP’s Parasite Control Subcommittee of the Infectious Disease Committee in 2013 produced a comprehensive set of recommendations for helping veterinarians develop improved strategies and programs for parasite control in horses of all ages. In 2019, these guidelines went through a rigorous review with the committee and former subcommittee and were updated. 

It is important to keep in mind that the information contained within these guidelines are suggestions; there are many variations of these suggested programs that will still meet the same goals and follow the same principles. Ultimately, each farm (with veterinary guidance) should develop its own program tailored to the specific needs of the farm and each animal. There is no such thing as a “one size fits all” program.

Guidelines are specified separately for adult and young horses (less than 3 years). All treatment and non-treatment recommendations are made within the context of a preventive program where fecal egg count (FEC) surveillance is being performed.

Read Internal Parasite Control Guidelines.