All articles tagged with #horse health
Following an EHV outbreak in Texas and Oklahoma, local veterinarian Rob Conner advises horse owners to be cautious, avoid mixing horses from affected areas, and watch for symptoms, as the virus is highly contagious among horses but not a risk to humans.
Equestrian events in Nova Scotia have been cancelled to prevent the spread of equine herpesvirus-1, which has already killed four horses. The virus is highly transmissible and has a high mortality rate. It can be spread through the air, nasal secretions, or contact with infected horses or equipment. The neurological strain of the virus causes fever, nasal discharge, weakness, and stumbling in horses. While the virus is not federally reportable, some horse owners believe it should be. The next two weeks will be critical in determining if the outbreak has been contained to one barn.
A 15-year-old horse in Oklahoma has tested positive for equine infectious anemia (EIA), a viral disease that attacks horses' immune systems. The infected horse was euthanized, and the remaining 21 horses in the herd are under quarantine until state testing requirements are met. EIA is transmitted through the exchange of body fluids and can be spread by blood-feeding insects or contaminated instruments. Infected horses are carriers for life, and there is no vaccine or cure for the disease.
Skinner becomes the fourth horse to be scratched from the 2023 Kentucky Derby field due to an elevated temperature. The field is now down to 19 horses. Practical Move, Lord Miles, and Continuar were also removed from the field, while Cyclone Mischief, Mandarin Hope from Japan, and King Russell were added. The race has been plagued with issues, including the recent deaths of two horses and the suspension of Lord Miles' trainer, Saffie Joseph Jr. Churchill Downs Inc. has suspended him indefinitely until details are analyzed and understood.