A case of Strangles was confirmed at the home stable of the Halifax Junior Bengal Lancers on May 20th. The barn is under quarantine and closed to the public until further notice.
The group made the announcement in the following post on their Facebook page:
“We have a very important announcement to make. This impacts Halifax Junior Bengal Lancers but also concerns the Nova Scotia equestrian community.“We have just received word back from our veterinarian confirming a case of Strangles in our barn. Strangles is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by Streptococcus equi bacterium. This disease affects horses only and the general public is not at risk.
“All of our regular programs have been temporarily suspended and all horses are being cared for by staff only. All staff are following strict disinfection protocols. Most of our horses remain healthy, and we are doing everything in our power to keep it that way. Our stables are under quarantine and closed to members and public until further notice.
“You may see horses being exercised by Lancer’s staff but this is not part of the normal recreational programs we provide.
“As there have been other confirmed cases of Strangles in NS, NB and PEI, all horses on our property have been restricted from leaving the premises since the initial onset of (very mild) symptoms. We have been working closely with our veterinarians to ensure we are following all recommended bio-security precautions in order to prevent any further spread of this disease.
“Some precautions other horse owners may take in the wake of this outbreak:
- Vaccinate any healthy horses if you have not already done so this year. Vaccination may not prevent disease in all horses but may lessen its severity and duration – Please still follow other precautions even if you have already vaccinated.
- Monitor your horse’s temperature daily. Immediately contact a veterinarian if your horse is unwell.
- Do not let your horse touch noses with any other horses at competitions.
- Do not share water buckets or feed tubs with other horses.
- Disinfect stalls at shows before putting your horse in the stall.
- Isolate new horses coming onto your property for 3 weeks.
“We are so sorry for any inconvenience this may cause, but the health and well-being of our horses is our top priority! We will send regular updates as the coming weeks unfold.”
The Halifax Junior Bengal Lancers offer riding and horsemanship programs for young people and is known for its Musical Ride.
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