Pediculosis in two research ponies (Equus caballus).

Horses and ponies are used infrequently in research but may be valuable animal models for studying both equine-specific diseases and biomedical applications. We report here 2 cases of pediculosis in random-source ponies. Infestation and clinical signs were not present during a 4-wk quarantine period or for 3 to 9 mo thereafter but became apparent coincident with the ponies' movement from pasture to indoor housing. These 2 geldings presented with pruritus associated with excoriating lesions on the neck, and infestation with Bovicola (Werneckiella) equi Denny, 1842 was diagnosed. Ponies were treated successfully with standard wound care and a spray containing 2.0% permethrin and 0.05% pyriproxyfen. These cases highlight the importance of recognizing the possibility of louse infestation, even in healthy, well-cared-for animals, and the need for personnel to be aware of early behavioral signs of infestation, such as rubbing and agitation.