‘Equine Herpesvirus can cause a seemingly healthy pregnant mare to suddenly, and without warning, miscarry her unborn foal. It can cause a horse which appears fit and well to suddenly show abnormalities when walking and within hours be unable to stand. It can also cause respiratory disease, similar to a cold, which can easily spread from horse to horse. The virus lies dormant and then re-emerges when an animal is later stressed, such as when transported or mixed with new horses.’
Animal Health Trust
For the most accurate information, please contact your vet or the Animal Health Trust https://www.aht.org.uk/news
In light of the current EHV situation the NSEA, connected venues and vets are continuously discussing best practice in order that competitions may run at venues well away from the problem areas. This is being monitored daily and may be subject to change if a positive diagnosis is made anywhere in the country. At no point will the NSEA run a competition at any venue if they have been advised by vets not to do so.
Tips from the NSEA- What is bio-security?
It is the daily care & welfare of horses in order to minimise the spread of viruses. Too often, riders sit on their ponies in a huddle, with the ponies touching noses. This is the easiest way to spread disease.
Know what your horses daily average temperature is. Take his temperature if you see any changes in his normal character, temperament or if your horses performance changes drastically, as it can be the first indicator of a potential problem.
The following is good practice at any competition or training:
Ensure that you keep your horse separate from others that it has not travelled with, is good practice whilst at any event.
Do not allow your horse to touch noses with another or chew on any fence / graze at show grounds/ share contact in any other area as these are the easiest way to spread any virus.
Do not stroke your horses nose and then stroke another.
Do not travel your horse in thick stable rugs / winter turnouts- they usually get too hot and this can lead to stress.
Drive slowly- horses get very stressed if they are driven too fast as they struggle to maintain their balance
Ensure that your horses is warmed up and cooled down sufficiently.
After competing, do not put your horse back on the lorry whilst it is hot & sweaty- walk him until he is cool & calm
Do not share water buckets or feedbowls with others. Clean daily.
Disinfect the stable, buckets, feedbowls etc regularly.
If a horse in your yard appears to be off colour, please do not take your own horse out to training or competitions until you know what is wrong with the other horse.
