Equine Flu
As a result of the recent equine flu outbreak, Argyll Riding Club will be following British Equestrian Federation (BEF)advice for event organisers. Therefore, all horses attending events must be vaccinated for equine flu in accordance with vaccination rules. Argyll South Pony Club are also following these guidelines and some individual venues are also taking precautionary measures. For example, no unvaccinated horses can attend Tarbert arena, even if only in a trailer as a companion. Please be aware that passports need to be checked before horses are unloaded.
We appreciate that the risk in Argyll is low at the moment, but we would rather be safe than sorry, and want to be able to continue with our 2019 event calendar. Please be vigilant and if you suspect any symptoms in your horse or another at your yard do not travel your horse to an event. Signs of flu can include lethargy/poor performance, loss of appetite, coughing, fever, and nasal discharge.
There is lots of useful information on the animal health trust website
https://www.aht.org.uk/news/statement-on-equine-influenza-outbreaks-in-vaccinated-horses including up to date information on the flu outbreak, advice for protection against flu and more detail about how to recognise symptoms.
Vaccination rules can be difficult to follow so attached is a spreadsheet from BRC to help you check that your vaccinations are compliant.
If you have any questions regarding vaccinations or any other information please contact Marije Terpstra (mjterpstra@hotmail.com) or Elaine Cameron (laineyj28@hotmail.com).
Many thanks,
Elaine
