07/07/2025
Hello IFYR families, Dr. Lena here 👩⚕️ As we head into rodeo week under hot, humid—and occasionally rainy—conditions, it's critical to think not only about comfort but also about biosecurity, especially with an EIA outbreak affecting multiple states, including Oklahoma .
🥤 1. Never share syringes or needles
Ensuring each horse has its own clean, disposable syringe is one of the best defenses against iatrogenic diseases like EIA.
🧼 2. Clean your kit daily
Disinfect all medical equipment after every use—needles, scissors, thermometers. Even small lapses can spread serious disease.
🌬️ 3. Manage heat and humidity
Tent-covered stalls can trap heat. Use portable fans, allow airflow, and consider wetting the outside of stalls to cool things down.
💧 4. Encourage water intake
Offer cool, shady water sources. Electrolyte supplementation can help, especially if you're noticing stronger fluid needs in the heat.
🩹 5. Watch for early signs
Monitor temperature twice daily. Fever, swollen limbs, lethargy, and decreased appetite could signal EIA—or simply heat exhaustion, so don’t wait to ask your vet.
🔄 6. Quarantine new or returning horses
If your horse traveled or mingled before arriving, keep them separate for a few days and monitor for fever before mixing with the herd.
Keep these tips in mind to ensure safety, health, and peak performance—even under tent covers and humid skies. Swing by my stall or send me a message anytime—happy to chat EIA prevention or heat stress management!