Worm away

Unfortunately, no matter how well you care for your pony, worms are – to a point – unavoidable. But don’t panic, as there’s plenty you can do to protect your pony from the damage they can cause, and we’re here to help. Our top tips will have you clued up on everything worm related, keeping your pony happier and healthier all year round.

1. Do worm egg counts

The best way to discover if your pony is affected by worms is to do a worm egg count. These should be done around every two months – you’ll need to collect a fresh sample of your pony’s poo in a special tube, then leave the rest to your vet or a laboratory, which will test it to see how many worm eggs are in it!

It’s normal – and nothing to worry about – for a pony to have some worm eggs. Usually treatment is only needed if the count is higher than 250 eggs per gramme of poo – however, the centre testing the sample will advise you on what treatment, if any, is needed when they give you your pony’s results.

Did you know?

Small numbers of worms in your pony’s gut can be healthy, as they help to build up immunity.

2. Know your worms

Do you know the names of the worms that affect ponies? There may be more than you thought! The different types are…

• roundworms
• small redworms
• tapeworms
• pinworms
• threadworms
• bots

TOP TIP

Give your pony some tasty treats, like molasses, in a syringe from time to time so he doesn’t associate a syringe with being wormed.

Find out more about your pony’s worming routine in March PONY! Pick up a copy today!