Exploring the operational logistics of implementing isolation protocols at equestrian facilities

Abstract

Horses may travel for a variety of reasons, leading to potential exposure to pathogens. Typically, these movements are bidirectional with horses returning to their home facility, therefore also risking pathogen exposure to resident horses at home facilities. The Canadian National Farm and Facility Level Biosecurity Standard for the Equine Sector was designed to outline best practices for managing biosecurity at equestrian facilities, however, there is a gap between the implementation of these recommendations and the day-to-day operations of equestrian facilities. This study aimed to explore the challenges and opportunities for implementing biosecurity protocols at equestrian facilities through an isolation activity for a mock pathogen. This study was performed at seven Ontario equestrian facilities and used a fluorescent spray as a proxy for a pathogen along with the subsequent implementation of biosecurity measures. Pre- and post-study interviews were also conducted with participants to gain additional insight into the feasibility of instituting an isolation protocol. Facility-level, qualitative, descriptive summaries and a survival analysis were used to outline some of the discovered challenges including weather, staff training, time constraints, and compliance. There were also horse-level considerations such as turnout procedures and stabling requirements. Results indicated the potential for a feasible subset of all biosecurity practices to effectively reduce risk of non-airborne transmission, counteracting the perception that biosecurity is effective only when performed completely and without exception. This could lead to additional incorporation of biosecurity measures in equestrian facilities’ daily operations to support continued maintenance of health and welfare in the equine population.