Equine Biosecurity

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