Practicing good biosecurity at home and while traveling is essential for your horse’s health and safety, and is an important part of industry-wide disease control measures. We collaborated with Dr. K. Gary Magdesian, infectious disease control officer and faculty member in the Equine Internal Medicine Service at the UC Davis veterinary hospital, to present a list of important things to remember when it comes to equine biosecurity.

Minimizing the Risk of Respiratory Issues in Horses - Horses are inherently built to live outdoors. With protection from harsh weather, access to clean water, and good hay, many horses thrive without the need for stabling. However, this ideal scenario may not always be feasible for their owners.

The stall is a fundamental element to stabling or sheltering horses. While a basic backyard stall for a pleasure horse may look different from one in a full-service boarding facility, both are designed to provide a suitable environment for horses and their handlers. Safety for both the human and animal should be a top priority in stall design. It is essential that the horse is comfortable, and that the handler can perform daily tasks conveniently. Regardless of your operating systems or specific needs, the main elements of a safe horse stall remain consistent. There are numerous options available that can influence both the functionality and cost of stall features.

Mud season can be a real challenge for horse owners. Managing water and footing is essential to prevent the area from turning into a soupy mess. This past spring, we moved onto our own five-acre property and are preparing for our first fall and winter with our herd of four on a track system. It takes creative solutions to keep horses high, dry, and out of the muck, at least most of the time. No matter where you live in Canada, these ideas will help you manage the muddy seasons in your area.