Piggy March supports new wormer campaign

Launch of CANTER programme aims to combat wormer resistance in the UK horse population

Top international event rider Piggy March has given her support to a new worming initiative launched at the National Equine Show on 4 March 2023. CANTER (Controlling ANTiparasitic resistance in Equines Responsibly) was formed by Dr Claire Stratford with the aim of creating a consistent approach to parasite control among horse owners.

Taking part in CANTER are voluntary representatives from the research sector – which includes prescribers, pharmaceutical companies and technical experts – and horse owners. Everyone involved recognises the critical consequences of wormer resistance developing in the various parasitic organisms and the need for this to be slowed through co-ordinated action if current treatments are to remain effective.

There are many misconceptions surrounding worming and, with that in mind, CANTER aims to be the ‘single source of truth’ for the equine community. Guidelines for best practice will be released before the end of 2023, as well as information on carrying out faecal egg counts to include how to collect, process and interpret the results.

To support the launch, a free resource for horse owners is available in the form of a parasite risk table. Users can assess if their horse has a low, medium, or high risk of parasite infection and associated disease and this will then allow them to take any appropriate action as necessary.

Burghley and Badminton winner Piggy March said: “I am supporting the CANTER initiative which aims to reduce the threat worms pose to our horses. It is more important now than ever to ensure we are future proofing our equine population in the UK.”

For more information or to download the free parasite risk profile visit canterforhorses.org.uk