Strangles case identified at our Norfolk farm

The infected mare is a recent arrival and was tested for the disease, as all new intakes are, which means she has been kept isolated from the main herd and will stay that way until she has recovered and is no longer infectious.

Given the nature of the horses we help, cases like this are not uncommon, and the team are well-equipped to manage them effectively.

As is our protocol, all movement of horses both in and out of Hall Farm have been suspended until further notice.

The mare is receiving the appropriate treatment and is expected to make a full recovery.

World Horse Welfare Hall Farm Centre Manager Sue Hodgkins said:

“As a precautionary measure, we have suspended horse movements, and we will not be able to hire the school for any equine events until we are 100 per cent confident there is no further infectious risk or cases identified.

“I know it can be scary for horse owners when they hear the word strangles, but we would like to reassure everyone this is something we are very experienced in managing. Our team are well practised in containing and treating the disease, and we are confident this case will be handled effectively.”

Strangles is not a notifiable disease but due to its prevalence and the fact it is so infectious, we are taking robust action to bring its spread to a halt and protect the wider equine population.

Several equestrian events, including a pole clinic due to take place this Sunday (February 9), have been cancelled but, the Hall Farm Visitor Centre will remain open to the public as usual.

Rehoming from Hall Farm will also be suspended until our Rescue and Rehoming Centre is clear from infection.

Further updates will be posted here and on our social media channels.

For further information on disease prevention see the charity’s advice pages.