Biosecurity involves a series of management steps designed to reduce the risk of contagious diseases being introduced to, or spreading within, a horse property. All equine infectious diseases arise through the interaction between the horse, its environment, and disease-causing organisms such as bacteria, viruses, or parasites. The outcome depends on both the animal’s immune defense and the strength of the pathogen—providing key points where intervention can reduce risk.

Neurologic issues can affect horses at any age, and clinical signs can result from infectious and non-infectious causes. Increased understanding of equine neurologic conditions has enabled earlier diagnosis and improved outcomes, and vaccines have reduced the spread of infectious diseases. However, diagnosis and treatment remain challenging in some cases.

Across Canada, owners, riders, farms, and horses continue to struggle with strangles, equine influenza, and equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy. Not only can these diseases be detrimental to horses’ health, but managing ill horses can stretch finances, shut down commercial operations, and be an emotional roller coaster for those involved.

Much more than just floating teeth! Do you remember to get an annual dental exam for your horse? A dental check by your veterinarian involves floating, the process of filing a horse’s teeth to correct irregularities in the occlusal (biting) surfaces, as well as inspecting the teeth for any indication of a variety of other potential problems. In addition to examining the teeth for abnormalities that might cause chewing and/or bitting issues, your vet will also be looking for signs of fractured or loose teeth, as well as signs of ulceration on the cheek mucosa, the tongue, or the gums (gingiva).