Parasites

Level: C1, C2, C3

Objective:
•	Discuss regular worming control for own pony; how and why to deworm new horse in barn
•	List prevalent internal parasites in your area.
•	Describe routine parasitic prevention for your pony.
•	Discuss internal parasites and the damage they can cause to pony.

Materials Needed:
•	Index cards with a common parasite listed on each one.  Examples: ascarids, small & large strongyles, pinworms, etc.
•	Playdo
•	Worksheet (on back of this page)
•	Markers, writing utensils
•	Reference books (PC Manual for Cs and B, HA; Horse Health Primer, etc.)

Activity:
•	Divide candidates into groups of two or three.
•	Give each group a worksheet and an index card.  Have them complete the worksheet.
•	Let each group present their parasite to the group.

Conclusion: 
•	Review the damage that parasites can cause to pony.
•	Discuss why it is important to have a parasite prevention program in place.

Parasite Worksheet

1.	What is your parasite?

2.	Describe your parasite.  How big is it?  What does it look like as an adult?  Using playdo, make a model of your parasite to scale.

3.	Where does your parasite live as a larvae?  As an adult?

4.	What organs and other internal structures does your parasite damage during its lifecycle?  How?

5.	List or draw the lifecycle of your parasite.

6.	List five things you can do to keep help prevent your pony from getting parasites.

7.	Why is it important to deworm a new horse in the barn?  What method would you use to deworm a new horse?