Global equine parasite control guidelines: Consensus or confusion?

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Parasitology
• Equine Health Management
• Evidence-Based Medicine

Background:

• Historically, equine parasite control faced confusing information, hindering evidence-based decisions.
• Development of global equine parasite control guidelines since 2012 aimed to provide trusted, current guidance.
• International experts convened in 2024 to compare and contrast these guidelines.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss similarities and differences in international equine parasite control guidelines.
• To identify current research needs in equine parasite management.
• To foster a consensus on best practices for controlling equine parasites.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of published equine parasite control guidelines from USA, UK, Sweden, Denmark, Netherlands, Australia, and Europe.
• Presentation and discussion of guidelines at the 2024 International Equine Infectious Disease Conference.
• Identification of common themes and divergent approaches in parasite control strategies.

Main Results:

• All guidelines advocate for a surveillance-based approach, prioritizing anthelmintic resistance testing.
• Focus varied, with some guidelines emphasizing Strongylus vulgaris, others cyathostomins, ascarids, and tapeworms.
• Differences noted in anthelmintic drug portfolios and regulatory restrictions (prescription vs. over-the-counter).

Conclusions:

• International equine parasite control guidelines share fundamental principles, advocating for surveillance and resistance testing.
• Variations in available diagnostics and drug regulations exist globally.
• Effective communication of guideline recommendations to veterinarians and horse owners is crucial for successful implementation.