“In the equine industry, true biosecurity is hard to achieve because horses move around a lot, and many diseases are always present,” says Ontario Veterinary College infectious disease specialist Dr. Scott Weese. “However, it’s still important to try to prevent diseases from entering and to have plans in place to manage any outbreaks.” With frequent horse movements, endemic pathogens and emerging diseases, there is a need for improved understanding and motivation to adopt better infection control practices.
Infection control begins in the barn and works best when the focus is proactive rather than reactive. This includes having an access management plan, proper quarantine protocols for new and returning horses, and training EVERYONE who comes on to the property or handles the horses.
