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Home / Equine Research Bank / J Am Assoc Lab Anim Sci / Pediculosis in two research ponies (Equus caballus).
Journal of the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science : JAALAS2010; 49(4); 487-490;

Pediculosis in two research ponies (Equus caballus).

Abstract: Horses and ponies are used infrequently in research but may be valuable animal models for studying both equine-specific diseases and biomedical applications. We report here 2 cases of pediculosis in random-source ponies. Infestation and clinical signs were not present during a 4-wk quarantine period or for 3 to 9 mo thereafter but became apparent coincident with the ponies' movement from pasture to indoor housing. These 2 geldings presented with pruritus associated with excoriating lesions on the neck, and infestation with Bovicola (Werneckiella) equi Denny, 1842 was diagnosed. Ponies were treated successfully with standard wound care and a spray containing 2.0% permethrin and 0.05% pyriproxyfen. These cases highlight the importance of recognizing the possibility of louse infestation, even in healthy, well-cared-for animals, and the need for personnel to be aware of early behavioral signs of infestation, such as rubbing and agitation.
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Publication Date: 2010-09-08 PubMed ID: 20819398PubMed Central: PMC2919192
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Summary

This research summary has been generated with artificial intelligence and may contain errors and omissions. Refer to the original study to confirm details provided. Submit correction.

The research article discusses two incidents of lice infestation in ponies used for scientific research, detailing the symptoms, treatment, and the need for early detection and awareness among caretakers.

Overview of the Research

  • The article presents two cases of pediculosis (lice infestation) in ponies being used in research settings.
  • These ponies did not show signs of lice infestation during the initial quarantine period or for months afterward. However, the symptoms become noticeable when the ponies were moved from their outdoor pasture to indoor housing.

Diagnosis and Symptoms

  • The signs of lice infestation were discocvered on two geldings—male ponies that have been castrated.
  • They showed symptoms of intense itching (pruritus) accompanied by wounds in the neck area—caused by the ponies scratching or rubbing against surfaces to alleviate the itch (excoriation).
  • Lice from the species Bovicola (Werneckiella) equi Denny, which commonly infest horses, were identified as the cause of the pediculosis.

Treatment And Outcome

  • The treatment administered to the infested ponies involved regular wound care and an application of a specialized spray.
  • This spray contained 2.0% permethrin—a common insecticide—and 0.05% pyriproxyfen, an insect growth regulator that prevents lice from reaching maturity.
  • Post treatment, the ponies responded well and successfully recovered from the infestation.

Takeaway from the Study

  • The study underscores the need for vigilance against lice infestation, even in animals that are seemingly healthy and well-cared for.
  • It also points out the necessity of personnel being aware of the early signs of infestation such as rubbing and agitation, to enable quick detections and treatments.

Cite This Article

APA
Sorrell MS, Fish RE, Taylor KH. (2010). Pediculosis in two research ponies (Equus caballus). J Am Assoc Lab Anim Sci, 49(4), 487-490.

Publication

Journal of the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science : JAALAS
ISSN: 2769-6677
NlmUniqueID: 101269489
Country: United States
Language: English
Volume: 49
Issue: 4
Pages: 487-490

Researcher Affiliations

Sorrell, Melanie S
  • Laboratory Animal Resources, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA.
Fish, Richard E
    Taylor, Karen H

      MeSH Terms

      • Animals
      • Horse Diseases / diagnosis
      • Horse Diseases / parasitology
      • Horse Diseases / pathology
      • Horses
      • Ischnocera
      • Lice Infestations / diagnosis
      • Lice Infestations / pathology
      • Lice Infestations / veterinary
      • Male
      • Quarantine

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