Equine Biosecurity

Jun 16, 2017

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

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