Parasitology

Faecal samples are examined for the presence of Strongyle and Ascarid worm eggs by Leo Mahaffey’s coverslip flotation in saturated saline solution method, where the presence of any eggs indicates the need for anthelmintic treatment.

Where indicated, faeces samples are examined for the presence of Anoplocephala perfoliata (tapeworm) eggs by the method of Owen (1977)

Where indicated, faeces samples are examined for Dictyocaulus arnfieldi (lungworm) larvae. For the latter, fresh samples are required and failure to detect larvae does not rule out infection. Tracheal wash cytology (eosinophils) may be a more accurate screening test for lungworm in horses.