Biosecurity in the Barn

"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" — Ben Franklin

Between diseases spread from horse to horse and those spread by insects and other vectors, it’s hard to keep horses safe and healthy. These are recommendations to help prevent the most common infectious diseases.

Horse to Horse: Equine Herpes Virus, Equine Influenza Virus, Strangles

• Vaccinate!
• Avoid nose to nose contact
• Do not share equipment
• Isolate new and sick horses for 14-21 days
• Require a Coggins (EIA) test and health certificate for all new horses

Environmental/insect Vectors: Potomac Horse Fever, West Nile Virus, Eastern & Western Encephalitis Viruses, Rabies, Tetanus

• Vaccinate!
• Fans, fly sprays, fly protective wear
• Treat standing water
• Break up manure in pastures
• Perform annual to biannual fecal egg counts, deworm
• Protect feed and hay from wildlife

Additional measures include minimizing stress—rough handling, over-training, and overcrowding of pastures can contribute to stress and decrease immunity. Providing adequate nutrition is also important.

Check your farm's biosecurity risk using the University of Guelph's Equine Biosecurity Calculator!

Equine Health Tips

• Biosecurity in the Barn
• Understanding and Treating Scratches in Horses
• Emergency Services: When to Call Equine Field Service Immediately
• Recommended Spring Vaccinations
• Riding Your Horse When It’s Cold Outside
• Equine First Aid for Owners
• Prevent Equine Illness during Rainy Season
• Intestinal Parasites, Fecal Egg Counts, and Deworming
• Leptospirosis—the disease in horses
• Equine Hoof Abscesses

Make an Appointment

Call: 765-494-8548
24/7 Emergency Phone: 765-494-8548

Entrance E - Equine Hospital Parking Lot
417 South Grant Street
West Lafayette, IN 47907
Directions