Concern about cases of pinworm (Oxyuris equi) has been on the increase over the last few years. If a pinworm problem is suspected then a worm count is unlikely to show the worm eggs because they are more often laid outside the horse around the anus area. Instead a more reliable sellotape test is used which takes an impression from the skin around the horse's bottom, under the tail. This is examined under the microscope to look for the presence of pinworm eggs.
How to take and send a sample for a horse pin worm test
1. Open the pouch carefully by tearing at the tear notch; this pouch becomes the envelope to return samples to the lab.
2. Stick the compostable label with our address and postage details to the front of the pouch using the dotted line as a guide.
3. Take the sample and complete the return checklist on the back of the pouch
a. Collect the sample in the morning, ideally before 9am. Pinworm are most active at night so this will give the best chance of detecting any activity that is present.
b. Take a 4” length of clear sticky tape and press this firmly onto the skin around the anus (not the hair).
c. Fold the tape in half, sticky side to sticky side.
d. Pop the folded piece of tape into the sample bag ensuring this is clearly labelled.
e. Put the sample and voucher in the envelope.
4. Remove the tape on the back of the pouch and double fold to seal. Pop in the post box