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Does every horse still need treating for encysted redworm?

Parasite Control Advice is Changing

Our approach to encysted redworm is no longer about giving every horse the same wormer on the same date. As we learn more about wormer resistance, parasite behaviour and the effects of our changing climate, the familiar routine of treating every horse for encysted small redworm in the late autumn/winter is becoming much more individual. That doesn't mean the advice you followed in the past was wrong. It means we now have more information to help us make better decisions.

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A Rising Star at Westgate!

Lab Innovations Award 2026

We’re delighted to share that Nathan Kindred, Lab Technician, Research Lead and Equine/Farm/Avian SQP, has been shortlisted for the Rising Star Award at the Lab Innovations Awards 2026, recognising his outstanding contribution to laboratory science and innovation.

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Autumn Parasite Control 2026

The lab is seeing more worm egg count results needing treatment, likely influenced by the hot summer weather. This makes keeping on top of your testing this autumn even more important. Good parasite control is also about having the right information and trusted support to make the best decisions. With Westgate, you get more than a result. Read on for our seasonal parasite control advice, including what to test for this autumn.

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Summer '26 Lucky Dip Giveaway

Summer Giveaway

Warm weather can increase parasite risk. To encourage uptake of testing this season, we're offering a daily prize draw, 17th – 28th August 2026, where all worm egg count samples arriving in the lab will automatically be entered into our postbag lucky dip! Get those samples in, because your next tests could be on us!*

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Warm weather linked to higher parasite risk

Don't delay your worm egg counts this summer

Horse worms don't go on holiday! Warm weather is linked to higher parasite risk and horse owners are urged not to delay their testing. New analysis of more than 50,000 UK worm egg count results has highlighted the importance of sticking to 8 to 12 week testing intervals.

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Job Vacancy; we're seeking a trainee lab technician

We're seeking a trainee lab technician in Northumberland

Are you friendly and well organised with an eye for detail? We’re seeking a practical, hard-working, animal loving person, to join our super team on the frontline of delivering animal health services from our busy postal laboratory in rural Northumberland. No previous experience is necessary as full job training will be given, just a willingness to learn and a proactive and enthusiastic approach to practical work is required. Must be physically fit to be on your feet for a few hours doing a repetitive physical activity. A passion for horses, chickens and/or farm animals is an advantage to his role.

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Insect Week 2026

Celebrating the Tiny Creatures That Help Our Pastures Thrive

Insect Week is organised by the Royal Entomological Society to celebrate the fascinating world of insects and highlights the vital roles they play in our environment and ecosystems. For horse owners, one group of insects deserves particular recognition, our wonderful dung beetles. Find out how these remarkable insects work tirelessly behind the scenes, helping to keep our grazing land healthy and productive.

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Westgate Labs Celebrates the First Ever National SQP Week

5th - 12th June 2026

We're celebrating the first ever National SQP Week, a nationwide campaign celebrating the vital role that Suitably Qualified Persons (SQPs), also known as Animal Medicines Advisors, play in supporting animal health and welfare across the UK. Find out about our expert SQP's and details of our week long prize giveaway!

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Summer Parasite Control 2026

This Summer Start with a Worm Egg Count! Every season brings its problems and summer is no exception. So while the battle to control flies is a visible daily trial at this time of year it’s important to remember about other parasites too such as intestinal worms, pinworm, bots, ticks and summer sores that might affect the health of our horses. Parasite control is not a single product or a one off decision, it's a process. Find out more about what to consider this season.