Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 1st July 2014
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

New saliva test for tapeworm burden
horse
Just 19 per cent of horses tested had a tapeworm burden needing treatment.
Tapeworm test could help the fight against drug resistance, says ADB

Horses can now be tested for tapeworm using a saliva sample for the first time, thanks to a new laboratory test developed by Austin Davis Biologics Ltd (ADB).

Previously, the only definitive method of testing for tapeworm was via blood taken by a vet. The new EquiSal Tapeworm Test is the first of its kind to use saliva to measure a horse's tapeworm burden.

It uses a sample of the horse's saliva, taken using a specially developed swab. The level of tapeworm-specific antibodies is analysed at the EquiSal laboratory to give an indication of the horse's tapeworm burden.

It is hoped that routine testing for tapeworm will be more accessible to horse owners as a result.

David Booth, managing director at Westgate Laboratories, who offer the test, said: "This will revolutionise the way we worm for tapeworm in horses. Worm counts and saliva testing must now become the core of everyone’s worming programme if we are to preserve the few effective wormers we have left."

ADB director Dr Corrine Austin said the number of horses with tapeworm appears to be lower than expected. "Only 19 per cent of horses tested had a tapeworm burden requiring treatment. This percentage is even lower in well managed yards.

"Many animals are being over-wormed for tapeworm when routine dosing strategies are used. Routine dosing increases the speed at which worms gain resistance, and with only two drugs licensed for tapeworm in horses, this should be a major concern to horse owners."

Current advice is to test horses twice a year at six monthly intervals and a minimum of four months after the last tapeworm dosing.

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.