Equestrians on the Isle of Man have been urged to take extra care and practise good biosecurity following an outbreak of strangles on the island.
The case of strangles has been found in a horse at Ballawhetstone Stables in Colby.
As a result, the riding school will be closed to visitors and all riding lessons and events are temporarily suspended until further notice.
Strangles Outbreak
Strangles is a bacterial infection that affects horses and other equids, such as ponies and donkeys. It does not affect people or other animals.
The infection can spread easily by direct contact between horses or indirectly via handlers, equipment or the environment.
Signs can include fever, loss of appetite, depression, a snotty nasal discharge and swollen lymph nodes. Not all horses will show all, or any, of these signs.
Take Care
The Department of Environment Food and Agriculture (DEFA) is aware of the outbreak in the south of the island.
DEFA urges horse owners and people working with horses to take extra care and practise good biosecurity.
Anyone concerned about their horse should speak to their vet.
More information about strangles can be found here.
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