Equine parasite control and the role of national legislation – A multinational questionnaire survey.

The research conducts a comparative survey on the equine parasite control strategies implemented in several countries including Germany, Austria, Netherlands, US, and Denmark. The study finds that Denmark utilizes significantly more faecal analyses and fewer anthelmintic treatments in controlling equine parasites than the other countries.

Methodology

• The researchers conducted an online questionnaire survey where participants from each country were recruited via an equine news website.
• The survey centered on the use of faecal egg counts (FEC) and anthelmintic treatment intensity in different equine age groups – foals, 1-3 years olds, and horses older than 3 years.

Findings

• A total of 3092 respondents participated in the survey.
• Danish respondents utilized significantly more faecal analyses in their parasite control strategies, which indicates a higher reliance on surveillance-based methods.
• Danish participants also reported administering fewer anthelmintic treatments per horse per year, regardless of the horse’s age. This suggests a more conservative use of anthelmintic drugs.
• Compared to other countries, Denmark has been using a selective treatment strategy for a substantially longer period.
• Despite Austria and Germany having had prescription-only restrictions for three to four decades, their parasite control strategies were found to be more similar to those of the US, where anthelmintic products can be purchased over the counter.
• The Netherlands, which had only recently introduced prescription-only restrictions, also found their practices similar to those in the US.

Conclusion

• The study reveals significant differences in equine parasite control strategies across the reviewed countries, with Denmark being the notable outlier with its emphasis on faecal analysis and cautious use of anthelmintic treatments.
• These differences cannot be attributed to legislation alone. Other factors such as existing equine health practices, awareness and local attitudes towards parasite control may also play a role. Therefore, further research is warranted for the comprehensive understanding of the influences on these practices.