Warming summer weather brings out a number of horse parasites that affect horses both externally and internally. Everything from summer sores to ticks and a variety of flies can both affect horse health and make the horse miserable.
Bot fly - Parasite affecting horse internal and external health
Much can be done to minimize the population of internal and external horse parasites and the effects they have on horse health, comfort and well being.
© 2019 by Janet Graham
Given the conditions of the equine world, eradication of most horse parasites that cause ill health and misery is currently impossible. However, much can be done to minimize both the population of parasites and the effects they have. The American Association of Equine Practitioners has developed a comprehensive list of suggestions to get rid of parasites before they attack the horse:
- Pick up and dispose of manure droppings at least twice weekly.
- Mow and harrow pastures regularly to break up manure piles and expose parasite eggs and larvae to the elements.
- Rotate pastures by allowing other livestock such as sheep or cattle to graze them, thereby disrupting the life cycles of parasites.
- Group horses by age to reduce exposure to certain parasites and maximize the deworming program geared to that group.
- Keep the number of horses per acre to a minimum to prevent overgrazing and reduce fecal contamination.
- Use a feeder for hay and grain rather than feeding on the ground.
- Remove bot eggs quickly and regularly from the horse's coat to prevent ingestion.
- Rotate worming agents, not just brand names, to prevent chemical resistance.
- Consult a veterinarian to set up an effective and regular deworming schedule.
To rid stalls, barns, pastures, and fields of external insect parasites, such as flies, mites, ticks, lice, gnats, and mosquitoes, attack them on the premises by applying or administering appropriate repellents and insecticides. Pyrethrins, organophosphates, insect growth regulators, synergists, and repellents offer protection from flies and mosquitoes.
Light coverings for horses can protect the body from flies and other biting insects. Stabling horses before sunset and eliminating all water sources that might be used by mosquitoes as breeding grounds will cut down on exposure to mosquitoes.
Topical insecticides applied to the horse will kill lice, chiggers, and ticks. Examining the horse for ticks after trail rides or being out in brushy areas will prevent infections and diseases from tick bites. Keeping tall grass, weeds, and brush cut back will help control the presence of biting insects.
Article is an updated version of article first published on EquiMed during summer of 2020.