Horse owners should take preventive measures against animal disease during event season

With the upcoming equine event season, the Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA) is reminding horse owners to practice preventive biosecurity measures to reduce the risk of animal disease, such as Equine Herpesvirus (EHV). While there are no confirmed cases of EHV in Nevada at this time, horse owners are encouraged to remain vigilant. The NDA reminds everyone to check on current entry requirements and comply with those when traveling to and from Nevada.

“This upcoming event season is a time of increased travel and interaction for horses, which can increase the risk of disease spread,” said NDA Director J.J. Goicoechea, DVM. “Horse owners should remain vigilant and take proactive measures to protect their animals.”

The NDA recommends biosecurity practices and to always monitor horses for signs of disease, like fever or runny nose. Biosecurity means implementing practices to reduce chances of an infectious disease being transferred by people, animals, equipment or vehicles. EHV and other diseases can be easily transferred on boots, coats, gloves and equipment. Some basic practices include:

• Never share equipment between horses.
• Always start chores with healthy horses, and end with sick or recovering (within 30 days) horses.
• Take your horse’s temperature twice daily, especially during and after travel or events.
• Isolate new or returning horses. Quarantine horses for at least 21 days before integrating them into your herd.
• Clean and disinfect stalls, trailers, and equipment thoroughly.

EHV is a reportable disease under Nevada Revised Statue NRS 571.160. Veterinarians are required to notify the NDA when cases are diagnosed. For more information or if your horse begins showing signs of illness, contact your local veterinarian.

About the Nevada Department of Agriculture

The Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA) mission is to preserve, protect and promote Nevada’s agriculture. The department has 225 dedicated employees providing services in its five divisions, Administrative Services, Animal Industry, Measurement Standards, Food and Nutrition, and Plant Health and Compliance. The department’s $288 million budget facilitates regulatory and administrative work in agriculture and food manufacturing industries, protecting public and environmental health and worker safety, and providing food distribution and oversight for the United States Department of Agriculture’s school and community nutrition programs.