Equine workshop focuses on parasite resistance and how to conduct fecal egg counts

UNIVERSITY PARK — Horse owners and horse farmers can learn about parasite resistance and how to conduct fecal egg counts during Penn State Extension’s “Equine Parasite Workshop,” slated for Oct. 19 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Dauphin County Agriculture and Natural Resources Center, 1451 Peters Mountain Road, Dauphin.

Organizers noted that equine parasite resistance to dewormers has become widespread, forcing horse owners and farmers to rethink the way they deworm horses. Instructors will explain how this resistance happened and what to do moving forward.

The session will cover:

? Equine parasite life cycles.

? Resistance to dewormers.

? Dewormer drug classes and management strategies.

? How to perform fecal egg counts using a microscope.

Participants will be able to analyze at least one manure sample from their own horse. At the end of the workshop, if there is time, participants can take turns analyzing additional manure samples. The registration confirmation email will provide sampling instructions.

Space is limited, so preregistration is required. The registration fee is $25, and the deadline to register is 11:45 p.m. Oct. 13.

? More information: Visit the Penn State Extension website at https://extension.psu.edu/equine-deworming-workshop.