The equine species is highly prone to constant infestations of worms in their digestive tract. This is because they graze close to the ground and often ingest soil particles. These particles contain worm larvae and eggs. Once the larvae have found a home in the animals intestines they begin their life cycle all over again. Once the eggs reach the mature adult stage they are passed out in the droppings to infect another animal. Domestic animals have the benefit of horse wormers to keep this problem under control.
Living in close proximity to other horses presents a number of health challenges. Horses are naturally infected with worms because they are grazers. They eat the short juicy grass closest to the ground. As a result of this they naturally ingest small amounts of dirt and soil. If this soil is contaminated with worm larvae they quickly make their way into the animals intestines and begin their life cycle all over again.
Vigilant stable management is essential to stop the worms becoming a serious health problem. Regularly cleaning up the manure is an important first step. However, even if this is done every day the horses will still need to be kept on a strict schedule of worming medication.
In the wild horses instinctively know not to eat close to dung. But once they are kept in barns they are forced to eat in contaminated paddocks that are often over used and lack enough grass. In these cases a very stringent worming program is vital. Horses should be treated with a different product every six to eight weeks.
In recent years modern science has really been able to help. A host of worm treatments has been developed that are both safe and effective. A number of active chemicals is necessary to treat each different type of worm. The ingredients to look for are ivermectin, bimectin, fenbendozole, pyrantel and moxidectin. These chemicals are used in many different worming products and buyers should educate themselves about the different brand names.
One thing for owners to keep in mind is that small ponies do not need the full dose. Studies have shown that by routinely over using a product the animal will quickly develop immunity and in consequence suffer from more worms. The best line of defense remains in good stable management.
Owners are well advised to clean their stalls and paddocks every day. This prevents the animals form coming into contact with the eggs and larvae. Many people also practice rotation grazing that allows the ground to rest. In summer the heat and dry conditions will often kill the larvae and eggs.
One of the best ways to stay on top of this problem is to purchase a rotation pack of horse wormers. These are very well priced and can usually be bought on line and shipped right away. A years supply of worm medication is included along with instructions for application.
Living in close proximity to other horses presents a number of health challenges. Horses are naturally infected with worms because they are grazers. They eat the short juicy grass closest to the ground. As a result of this they naturally ingest small amounts of dirt and soil. If this soil is contaminated with worm larvae they quickly make their way into the animals intestines and begin their life cycle all over again.
Vigilant stable management is essential to stop the worms becoming a serious health problem. Regularly cleaning up the manure is an important first step. However, even if this is done every day the horses will still need to be kept on a strict schedule of worming medication.
In the wild horses instinctively know not to eat close to dung. But once they are kept in barns they are forced to eat in contaminated paddocks that are often over used and lack enough grass. In these cases a very stringent worming program is vital. Horses should be treated with a different product every six to eight weeks.
In recent years modern science has really been able to help. A host of worm treatments has been developed that are both safe and effective. A number of active chemicals is necessary to treat each different type of worm. The ingredients to look for are ivermectin, bimectin, fenbendozole, pyrantel and moxidectin. These chemicals are used in many different worming products and buyers should educate themselves about the different brand names.
One thing for owners to keep in mind is that small ponies do not need the full dose. Studies have shown that by routinely over using a product the animal will quickly develop immunity and in consequence suffer from more worms. The best line of defense remains in good stable management.
Owners are well advised to clean their stalls and paddocks every day. This prevents the animals form coming into contact with the eggs and larvae. Many people also practice rotation grazing that allows the ground to rest. In summer the heat and dry conditions will often kill the larvae and eggs.
One of the best ways to stay on top of this problem is to purchase a rotation pack of horse wormers. These are very well priced and can usually be bought on line and shipped right away. A years supply of worm medication is included along with instructions for application.
About the Author:
If you need the best horse wormers for the money, check out this link to www.bethelfeedmill.com. To see all the fine products that Bethel Feed & Supply has to offer, visit us on the Web today at http://www.bethelfeedmill.com.
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