Lungworm in horses and donkeys: what should you watch out for?
When horses and donkeys are kept together, there is an increased risk of lungworm infections. Lungworm (Dictyocaulus arnfieldi) is a parasite that mainly occurs in donkeys. For horses, however, it can cause health problems.
Donkeys as carriers
Donkeys often carry lungworm without becoming ill themselves. They can shed larvae in their manure for years without showing clear signs of disease. This makes them important carriers of the infection.
Sensitivity of horses
Horses respond differently to this parasite. They are more sensitive and may develop symptoms even at a low infection level. Symptoms may include coughing, breathing difficulties, or reduced condition. This difference makes the combination of horses and donkeys a situation that requires extra attention.
Practical advice
Our advice is to test donkeys that are kept together with horses for lungworm.
If the donkey tests negative and the horses show no symptoms, it is not necessary to test the horses.
If the donkey tests positive or the horses show symptoms, additional testing of the horses may be useful.
Conclusion
Keeping horses and donkeys together is fine, but it requires vigilance. By regularly testing the donkey for lungworm, you protect the horses from potential infection. This way, problems can be detected early and both horses and donkeys stay healthy.
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