A new survey has shown a lack of knowledge surrounding Equine Herpes Virus (EHV), including how the serious disease is transmitted.
The research, involving 2,256 UK horse owners, was conducted by Zoetis UK Ltd and found that 25% were unclear about how EHV is transmitted and the associated risks to their horses.
Every horse or pony is susceptible to the highly contagious, potentially fatal airborne disease, which can lead to respiratory problems and poor performance.
More than a quarter of respondents to the survey did not understand exactly how EHV is spread or the risks of disease to their horse, with up to one in four owners unaware that EHV could be transmitted via air droplets, shared equipment, handlers or bedding.
This was despite 98% of horse owners recognising equine gatherings as a risk factor for disease transmission and 75% reporting that they frequently left their home premises with their horses.
The survey showed a high compliance amongst respondents for flu and tetanus vaccination, at 95%, yet in contrast only 17% of owners reported vaccinating for EHV despite 86% believing vaccination significantly reduces the spread of the disease.
Seventy eight percent of owners not currently vaccinating said they would be likely to vaccinate now that they understood the potential impact of EHV on their horse, and 93% of horse owners not currently vaccinating their horses said they would do so if their vet advised it.
“The respondents showed that there is still a lack of awareness about aspects of EHV and how to protect their horses via preventative management strategies,” said Zoetis National Equine Veterinary Manager Dr Wendy Talbot.
“We are collaborating with veterinarians to provide information and support, to help owners routinely reduce the risks of this serious disease and we encourage horse owners to seek advice from their vet.”
