11/19/2025
🚨 IMPORTANT HEALTH ALERT FOR ARIZONA HORSE OWNERS 🚨
Desert Mountain Equine is closely monitoring reports of Equine Herpesvirus Type 1 (EHV-1) cases confirmed in Texas and linked to recent multi-state horse events. We want our clients and community to stay proactive and prepared.
Your horse’s safety is always our priority, and staying ahead of potential outbreaks makes a world of difference.
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📌 What is EHV-1 and why does it matter?
EHV-1 is a contagious virus that can cause:
• Respiratory illness
• Abortion in pregnant mares
• Neurologic disease (Equine Herpes Myeloencephalopathy, EHM)
Neurologic cases can show: hind-end weakness, stumbling or incoordination, urine dribbling, and in severe cases, difficulty rising or inability to stand.
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✅ What You Can Do Right Now to Protect Your Horses
1. Take temperatures twice daily.
A fever (101.5°F / 38.6°C or higher) is often the very first red flag.
2. Isolate any horse with fever, nasal discharge, cough, or neurologic signs.
Call Desert Mountain Equine immediately if you notice anything concerning.
3. Separate horses returning from events or travel for at least 14 days.
Extend to 21–28 days if they were potentially exposed.
4. Strengthen barn biosecurity:
• No nose-to-nose contact
• Disinfect buckets, tack, trailers, and grooming equipment
• Wash hands between horses
• Use dedicated clothing/boots around sick, new, or recently traveled horses
5. Limit hauling or unnecessary travel during periods of heightened risk.
6. Stay current on vaccinations.
While vaccines cannot prevent the neurologic form, they do help reduce viral shedding and respiratory disease.
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🔍 Signs to Watch Closely For
• Fever
• Nasal discharge or cough
• Lethargy or decreased appetite
• Hind-end weakness or stumbling
• Tail tone changes or urine dribbling
• Pregnant mares aborting
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📅 If You Have an Upcoming Appointment at Desert Mountain Equine
Please reach out before your visit if your horse has:
• Recently attended events
• Traveled out of state
• Been exposed to a horse with fever, respiratory signs, or confirmed EHV-1
This helps us plan safe biosecurity measures and protects every horse on the property.
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Your vigilance is powerful. Our team is here 24/7 to support you with guidance, monitoring, testing, and care should concerns arise.
Stay aware, stay prepared, and as always — we’re here for you and your horses. 💙🐴