Strangles is one of the most common equine diseases in horses in the UK. It is a highly contagious infection of the upper respiratory tract caused by the bacteria Strep. equi (Streptococcus equi subspecies equi). Horses, ponies and donkeys of all types and ages can be affected, but young horses typically develop more severe signs.
“It was such a relief for him to be given the all-clear; three times we thought we were going to lose him and so many times I was on the phone to the vets in tears”
The annual Strangles Awareness Week takes place 3-9 May and aims to provide owners, yard managers, vets and equine professionals with a platform to share their own stories and promote support for those affected by the disease
The charities involved are expecting more visitors to the moor when lockdown restrictions ease
‘He appeared completely normal but he would have been a carrier and we wouldn’t have known’
‘Potentially we may not open as a riding school if we have to sell the horses and ponies to pay the vets’ bills, it’s a big worry’
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Dr Richard Newton said the website provides ‘comprehensive insights’ about the disease that have never been available before
Strangles is the most frequently diagnosed infectious disease of horses worldwide, so find out how to recognise it and what steps to take once it has been confirmed
‘We know people are more likely to make positive, proactive changes if they’ve made a commitment to do so’
The co-owner of the centre said all horses at the venue are now clear of the disease
How can we keep infectious disease at bay? We outline how yard practices and routines contribute to biosecurity
‘When we cancelled we had 818 entries, and 50 on the waiting list, but obviously horse welfare comes first’
Yards and individual owners are invited to sign up to the initiative, on Saturday 6 July, to show support for fighting the infectious disease
The vaccine is due to be released in the UK next year after successful trials
Those who have signed up show a ‘clear appetite for change’
Owners and yard managers can make an online pledge and receive updates and the latest guidance
The centre confirmed it had a case of strangles and was taking precautions to avoid spreading the infection
