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Basic Parasite Lifecycle 

• Many types of equine parasites live in manure in the grass and are eaten as the horse grazes. Once these parasites enter the horse's system, they migrate, mature and lay eggs. A new generation of parasite eggs and larvae leaves the horse in manure, then waits in the grass to be ingested again.

Indirect Lifecycle

• Parasites with indirect lifecycles depend on another organism to get into the horse. For example, tapeworm eggs develop in the oribatid grass mite and enter the horse when infected mites in the grass are ingested.

Bot Fly Lifecycle

• Bots aren't worms, they're flies. Adult female bot flies lay eggs on the horse's legs, shoulder, chin, throat and lips. The eggs hatch and bot larvae enter the horse when licked or by burrowing under the horse's skin to the mouth.

For Optimum Parasite Protection,
READ THE LABEL!

Broad Spectrum Control

• Some dewormers target only a half dozen parasites, while others are much more effective against a broader range.  Look carefully and see what your dewormer controls.

Age Restrictions

• Young foals are especially susceptible to certain parasites, such as roundworms and intestinal threadworms (strongyloides westeri). To treat, look for dewormers labeled safe for foals without age restrictions.  

Frequency

• Read the label. Most dewormers call for reapplication every 6 to 8 weeks. Some claim longer effectiveness for one or two parasites. For complete protection, you need to treat for all parasites. 

Dosage

• For effective parasite control, it is important to provide the proper dose for your horse's weight. Depending on the product, a single dose syringe may treat anywhere from 1,100 to 1,250 lbs. Read the label and make sure you know how to set the syringe for the correct dose. 

Call your local branch for availability and pricing.