BACKGROUND

This policy is responsible for protecting the health and safety of horses, owners and attending veterinarians.

SUMMARY

We advocate Hendra vaccination for all horses.
We will attend unvaccinated horses under the conditions outlined below:

CONDITIONS

• A decision on our action is made based purely on a risk assessment at the time which includes a thorough history and the horses’ clinical signs.
• If your unvaccinated horse is showing any clinical signs including fever, elevated heart and respiratory rates, nasal discharge, ataxia, muscle twitching, recumbency, blindness or sudden death; an exclusion test must be performed, and minimal treatment can be offered at the time only.
• There may be situations when an exclusion test is not required such as a cut leg in a healthy horse, but this depends on the history and clinical judgement at the time.

HENDRA VIRUS EXCLUSION TEST

• The exclusion test involves blood and nasal samples from your horse under strict biosecurity guidelines. There is minimal contact with the horse, and this must be maintained until the result of the Hendra test is received. This can sometimes take up to 3 days.
• An exclusion test is a costly and stressful exercise for all parties involved. Costs incurred can sometimes be up to $700 including medication and travel.

Mary River Veterinary Services has a zero-tolerance policy on abuse during the risk assessment process of unwell unvaccinated horses. Thank you for your understanding.

Author: Dr Damien Smith