Rethinking Parasite Control for Today’s Horses with Dr. Martin Nielsen

For decades, horse owners followed routine rotational deworming schedules. That approach fueled drug resistance in equine parasites, leaving fewer effective options today. Smarter management now relies on testing, timing, and targeted treatment.

In this episode of Equine Innovators Dr. Martin Nielsen, professor of equine clinical sciences at Aarhus University, in Denmark, shares insights from decades of research that shaped modern parasite control. He explains why elimination of equine internal parasites is not possible, what mistakes owners still make, and how veterinarians and farm managers can adapt their programs.

From tapeworms in adult horses to ascarids in foals, Nielsen outlines today’s biggest concerns and the evidence-based strategies that help preserve drug efficacy for the future. He also previews emerging diagnostic tools that could transform parasite management in the years ahead.

Tune in to learn how science-driven parasite control protects horses’ health and keeps deworming drugs effective for the next generation

GUESTS AND LINKS – EPISODE 22:

• Host: Stephanie L. Church, editorial director at The Horse: Your Guide to Equine Health Care/TheHorse.com | @stephlchurch on Instagram | Email Stephanie (schurch@thehorse.com)
• Links: (Parasite control resources from TheHorse.com) Worms, Bugs, and Your Horse: 21st Century Parasite Control, Parasite Control for Young Horses, Parasite Control FAQs, Fecal Egg Count Cheat Sheet, AAEP Parasite Control Guidelines
• Guest: Martin Nielsen, DVM, PhD, DVSc, Dipl. ACVM, Dipl. EVPC, was the Schlaikjer Professor in Equine Infectious Disease at the M.H. Gluck Equine Research Center at the University of Kentucky until 2024. In late 2024 he started working as professor of equine clinical sciences at Aarhus University, in Denmark. Follow Dr. Nielson on X (@MartinKNielsen) | Martin K. Nielsen Equine Parasitology on YouTube
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• Please visit our sponsor, who makes this podcast possible: Zoetis Equine | @ZoetisEquine on Instagram and Facebook