Dechra has published the results of a survey which shows how vets and horse owners could do more to prevent strangles. 

The survey of 50 vets carried out in May this year1 found that only half of them are recommending strangles vaccination to their clients.

They also felt that horse owners could be doing more to combat the disease.

Less than half of vets questioned believed that yards and premises operated good biosecurity measures prior to a strangles outbreak, yet 85% brought in more stringent biosecurity after an outbreak, when it was too late.

Dechra says that vets and horse owners can help combat the estimated 300 outbreaks of strangles each year with the following steps:

  • Vets should recommend vaccination to all horse owners. 
    Dechra says vaccination with Strangvac can protect up to 94 per cent of horses2 and reduces clinical signs of the disease including a high temperature, coughing, inappetence, difficulty swallowing and changes in demeanour, while also reducing the number of lymph node abscesses
  • Horse owners should practice good biosecurity and quarantine measures.
    This includes keeping horses isolated from other horses, washing hands after handling horses and cleaning and disinfecting equipment.
    Horse owners should also monitor their horses' temperatures regularly.

Sara Barker BVSc CertAVP(EM) MRCVS, equine field support manager at Dechra, said: “Strangles is one of the most common equine infectious diseases both in the UK and worldwide and a multi-factor approach is key to tackling the disease.

"Strangles vaccination is recommended, alongside good biosecurity, quarantine measures and regular temperature checking.

"By working together, vets and horse owners can help to keep horses healthy and prevent the spread of strangles.”

Reference

  1. 50 vets surveyed in May 2023
  2. Robinson et al, 2020, Vaccine

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vets.