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Worm risk-assessment tool launched for horse owners
The assessment looks at topics such as dung removal.
The risk calculator is available for free online.

A free online tool has been launched to help horse owners assess the risk that their horse might have worms.

The risk calculator, ‘What’s Your Worm Risk’, is designed to help horse owners and wormer prescribers to make decisions on parasite control.

With wormer resistance becoming a significant issue due to overuse, guidelines now recommend only using wormers in a targeted way. Risk assessments can help with pasture management to reduce the likelihood of worm infection and support the use of monitoring through faecal worm egg counts and other tests.

The assessment tool, created by Austin Davis Biologics, looks at topics including stocking density, grazing with other animal species, dung removal, and diagnostic testing.

Jacqui Matthews, director of veterinary science at Austin Davis Biologics, said: “‘What’s Your Worm Risk’ calculates the likely level of risk based on widely accepted principles regarding equine worm infections and, depending on horse-specific input, will classify the risk of worm infection of an individual horse as low, moderate or high.”

Corrine Austin, managing director of Austin Davis Biologics, added, “‘What’s Your Worm Risk’ is a much-needed tool to support owners in engaging with their prescribers when considering wormer use and how to apply best practice parasite control. 

“A component of the assessment’s output is dedicated to highlighting non-chemical and test-led approaches that will support sustainable parasite control as recommended in official guidelines.”

The risk calculator can be accessed here.

Image © Shutterstock

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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.