The latest CANTER Core Steering Group meeting, held on 15 May 2025, marked a pivotal moment for the industry-wide initiative tackling anthelmintic resistance in horses. With thanks to the Responsible Use of Medicines in Agriculture Alliance – Companion Animal & Equine (RUMA CA&E), CANTER has now transitioned from Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) governance to a new model with independent, cross-sector support.
Chair Julia Shrubb warmly welcomed RUMA CA&E’s backing, praising their work behind the scenes and affirming that the partnership brings both structure and opportunity to CANTER’s collaborative mission. The move firmly positions CANTER as an independent, industry-supported body delivering trusted guidance on sustainable parasite control for UK horses.
The meeting reaffirmed CANTER’s core values: independence, transparency, and neutrality. Robust governance protocols were discussed, ensuring compliance with competition law and consistent public messaging.
Looking ahead, the group approved several exciting initiatives: the development of bite-size chapter podcasts to promote prescriber guidelines, new chapters on quarantine and youngstock, and a coordinated approach to research publication via a public-facing database. Plans for downloadable PDF guidelines were also agreed, with an annual review system to ensure content remains current and evidence-based.
The communications subgroup reported on progress made during the governance transition and outlined priorities for a wider horse-owner outreach strategy. Meanwhile, the research subgroup confirmed the launch of priority mapping and collaborative tools to guide future studies.
With quarterly meetings planned and funding strategies outlined aligned with strategic activity, CANTER is building its roots for long-term impact. The group’s commitment to shared expertise, open collaboration, and practical action continues to drive progress.
In the spirit of full transparency, public minutes from the meeting are available to view on the CANTER website. Read more about CANTER’s latest developments here: