The CANTER Core Steering Group met on 18 December 2025 to review progress and agree priorities for the year ahead. Discussions highlighted the breadth of activity delivered over the past 12 months and the continued collaboration supporting CANTER’s strategic aims.
A key focus of the meeting was the completion of the first annual review of the CANTER Guidelines. This represented a significant collective effort by the Guidelines Working Group, with updates made to ensure the guidance remains relevant, evidence based and practical for UK prescribers. The revised Guidelines are now available on the CANTER website, with future updates scheduled through the next annual review in autumn 2026.
Two new standalone chapters, covering Foals and Youngstock and Quarantine, are also in development. Both chapters are drafted and undergoing final review, with publication planned once sign off is complete. Further tools to support implementation of the guidance, including practical resources linked to quarantine, are also being explored.
The group reviewed funding and governance activity over the past year. The first twelve months of partnership with the RUMA Companion Animal and Equine Alliance is establishing itself as an excellent fit with the two organisations so well aligned. The core-steering group expressed gratitude for the governance, administrative and communications support is proving invaluable to underpin CANTER activity and coordination to progress future objectives.
All financial support pledged by CANTER members has now been received, and the Steering Group expressed sincere thanks for this continued commitment. This backing enables delivery of CANTER’s strategic plans, including Guideline development, communications activity and new educational resources, and supports CANTER’s transition to a self-sustaining model following its establishment under the auspices of the Veterinary Medicines Directorate.
The Steering Group also reflected on a busy year of engagement and outreach, with CANTER represented at a wide range of industry events and professional forums. These included the Northern Irish Veterinary Association Welfare Symposium, the London Vet Show, RUMA Companion Animal and Equine webinars, the 826 Equine Studbook AGM, as well as representation at Blenheim Horse Trials and YardWise workshops. Additional communications have reached farriers, prescribers and horse owners, helping to raise awareness of sustainable parasite control and CANTER’s key messages.
Looking ahead, several new initiatives are in development. A series of prescriber focused podcasts is being prepared for release in spring and summer 2026, featuring discussions with CANTER Guidelines authors to support practical application of key principles. Work is also underway to develop new owner facing resources, responding to the need for clear, consistent advice to reduce reliance on chemicals and encourage prescriber engagement.
Updates from the research subgroup highlighted progress in strengthening CANTER’s research focus. The research webpage has been updated and is now live, with further work planned to refine research priorities, support horizon scanning and encourage collaboration.
Website developments over the past year have improved access to guidance and resources, strengthened visibility of funders and partners, and ensured content remains current and easy to navigate.
Together, the December Core Steering Group meeting reflects a year of sustained collaboration and delivery across the CANTER network. With continued engagement from members and partners, CANTER remains focused on supporting prescribers and horse owners to tackle anthelmintic resistance and safeguard the future of equine parasite control.
Public minutes from the meeting are available to download on the CANTER website.