I am requesting some assistance in developing an effective worming program. The archives (some recent and some dated posts) include several 8 week rotations of various classes/brands of wormers, annual rotation with in classes (one class per year), Spring/Fall rotation of Strongid 1st month and Ivermectin the 2nd month, some included pasture management practices, but most did not. many rotations shared consistency in two methods: Ivermectin for control of bots after a killing frost and Spring/Fall or at least Fall Fenbendazole purge (most stated Panacur, but at least one Safe Guard) for controlling tape worm and encysted small strongles. Several posts suggested single dose panacur before the 5 day double dose purge to reduce the risk of colic in horses with heavy parasite load. More than one post cautioned the use of Quest. Panacur suspension and Ivomec injectable were suggested as cost control measures. I know individual circumstances influence the effectiveness of any worming schedule, so here are a few details. I pasture three horses and two ponies on 25 acres in North Central WV. Spring pasture is usually lush in April and a light to heavy frost usually hits near mid October. My horses are on turn out 24/7 except morning and evening feedings and during very extreme winter weather. Based upon grass growth patterns, my horses don't seem to graze areas where they drop manure. We drag the pasture and brush hog twice in most years, but pasture rotation isn't practical due to terrain and property lines. I am considering the following: October: fenbendazole purge using Panacur suspension November: ivermectin using Ivomec injectable February: ivermectin April: fenbendazole purge July: ivermectin Does this schedule seem adequate without unnecessarily stressing my companions? Are Panacur suspension and Ivomec injectable still recommended for use in horses? If so, what is the dosage (single and double)? Any other comments/recommendations are welcome - especially from our vets and nutrition experts. Thanks for your suggestions, Peggy Burgess, AERC #9060
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