Biosecurity for new horses

When a new horse arrives at the yard, keep it isolated from the others to start with. This prevents any infection from spreading. Run the isolation for a few weeks, and watch the new horse closely for any signs of illness during that time. Take its temperature daily so that you catch a fever early. It is worth taking the other horses' temperatures too, since the newcomer can carry an infection without showing symptoms itself.

Be strict about hygiene as well. Wash your hands and change your clothes between handling the new horse and the others. If you can, keep separate tools and equipment for the new horse. Remember that horseboxes also need a thorough clean after carrying a new horse. Before the horse even arrives, it is a good idea to check that it is vaccinated and has not been at a yard with a known infection in the past three weeks.

Good luck!