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Testing guidance reissued after wormer resistance reports
“The best approach to prevent wormer resistance is to evaluate and implement improved pasture management” – Prof Jacqui Matthews.
Treatment failure reported for praziquantel and pyrantel.

Following reports that equine tapeworm drugs may be losing efficacy, Austin Davis Biologics (ABD) has reissued its guidance on the use of EQuiSal salvia testing for informing tapeworm control.

A recently published study from the Department of Veterinary Science at the University of Kentucky found evidence of treatment failure of praziquantel and pyrantel, the only two drugs licensed in the UK for tapeworm control in horses.

Responding to this development, ABD is emphasising that owners should not repeatedly test and treat for tapeworm without evaluating management, as this could lead to resistance.

Professor Jacqui Matthews, director of veterinary science at ADB, said: “In horses that report with a borderline or moderate/high saliva score, their management should be evaluated to determine what improvements could be made to help prevent tapeworm reinfection from the pasture.

“As part of this evaluation, a follow up test can be performed three months after treatment to provide information on whether or not reinfection is occurring.”

In cases when horses test positive in the follow up test, Prof Matthews said: “Improvements in pasture management should be undertaken, and/or a tapeworm treatment considered where appropriate, to prevent further grazing contamination with tapeworm eggs.

“All co-grazing horses should be tested at the same time in case they act as a continued source of tapeworm eggs. The best approach to prevent wormer resistance is to evaluate and implement improved pasture management to move to a situation where recurring reinfection is considerably reduced.”

ABD suggests that when saliva scores stay high despite taking the suggested measures, anthelmintic resistance should be considered a possibility. In such cases, the company recommends that owners seek advice from their veterinary surgeon.

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Free bloat webinar planned for dog owners

News Story 1
 The Kennel Club is inviting dog owners to attend a free webinar on gastric dilation-volvulus syndrome, also known as bloat.

Part of its health webinar series, the session will take place from 7pm to 8pm on 12 November. It will explore what scientific research has revealed about causes, symptoms, breed susceptibilities, diagnostic approaches, and treatment options, as well as looking at what future research could uncover.

The talk will be hosted by Mark Dunning, professor of small animal internal medicine at the University of Nottingham, and will include a 30-minute Q&A session.

Places can be booked here

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News Shorts
FIVP to represent independent practices at London Vet Show

The Federation of Independent Veterinary Practices (FIVP) will be at stand (S05) at this year's London Vet Show.

The not-for-profit organisation will be explaining how its expertise and resources can help independent practices to thrive in a competitive industry. It will also share how it has been representing independent practices in the ongoing CMA investigation.

On Thursday, FIVP member Steve Carter will be available to discuss how veterinary surgeons and nurses can pursue practice ownership.

FIVP will also be offering independent practices three months of free membership if they sign up at the stand.

Rita Dingwall, FIVP business development manager, said: "It's a wonderful opportunity to discuss our representation in the CMA enquiry and connect with like-minded individuals who share our passion for independent practice."