By Tom Guthrie
Simply put - biosecurity refers to measures intended to protect against the spread of disease or biological contamination. Implementing simple practices can go a long way in protecting your equine investment.
Michigan State University Extension recommends that a minimum biosecurity plan should at least include: clean boots, clean hands, clean clothes and clean equipment. It is also important to understand the potential risks and have a plan to reduce those associated risks.
Consider these other top priorities for equine biosecurity when developing your plan:
- Develop vaccination plan for herd health and travel schedule
- Don’t share equipment or water buckets
- Quarantine new and sick animals
- Avoid equine nose to nose contact when traveling
- Disinfect trailers and housing before introducing new animals
- Keep horses away from stored or spread manure
Additionally, know some of the basic symptoms of a potentially sick horse for early detection of disease.
General Signs of Illness:
- Drainage from eyes
- Fever
- Depression
- Weakness
- Lethargy (lack of energy)
- Loss of or no appetite
- Nasal discharge
- Difficult breathing
- Cough
- Diarrhea
- Blisters or sores
- Behavioral changes
- Lack of coordination
- Inability to rise
- Twitching or seizing
Source: msu.edu