Biosecurity are the protocols that you put in place to reduce the risk and spread of infection. When attending shows and competitions, it is important that everyone helps prevent the spread of disease by following a good biosecurity routine prior to and during the event.

Prior to leaving for a competition

It is important that your horse is healthy before attending a show. You will know your horse best and if something is out of character it is best to speak to your vet. More physical signs could include an elevated heart rate, high temperature, discharge from the mouth or nose, lack of appetite, pain or swelling, loss of body condition etc.

Make sure all your horses’ vaccinations are up to date. Some competitions may have specific rules around this, so it is best to check with the venue.

Bring your horses passport with you to the show as some venues will ask to see this on arrival.

Ensure your lorry/trailer is thoroughly disinfected prior to travel. If possible, avoid sharing transport with other horses especially if they come from a different yard.

Take your own buckets, water and hay to make certain you are not sharing these with others and cross contaminating.

During the competition

If you are using overnight stabling, ensure that you spray both the bedding and stables with disinfectant prior to your horse entering.

Do not share grooming equipment with others, if you need to for any reason, ensure that you thoroughly disinfect prior to use.

Prevent your horse coming into contact with another horse where possible and avoid grazing where other horses have been.

Use your own buckets, water and hay whilst at the show.

After the competition

Clean and thoroughly disinfect your lorry or trailer, grooming equipment and buckets.

Monitor your horse closely for the next 14 days to ensure that they have not picked up any infections.