Threadworm - Donkey
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Strongyloides westeri
Signalment
These worms usually only affect foals under six months of age. Dormant infestations in pregnant mares are transmitted to foals via the milk. Infestations tend to disappear spontaneously after this age.
Diagnosis
Clinical signs
If large numbers of larvae are ingested or if the foal is immuno-compromised severe diarrhoea may result.
Laboratory tests
- Patent infestations in foals are diagnosed by examining the faeces.
- Larvae may be detected in a mare’s milk but not in her faeces.
Treatment
- Use ivermectin from six weeks of age
- Repeat every three months until one year old
Control
Clean pasture should be used for each new group of foals to minimise the parasitic burden.
References
- Trawford, A. and Getachew, M. (2008) Parasites In Svendsen, E.D., Duncan, J. and Hadrill, D. (2008) The Professional Handbook of the Donkey, 4th edition, Whittet Books, Chapter 6
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