April 2026 Issue

April 2026 | EAST COAST EQUESTRIAN 32 ByThe Pennsylvania Equine Council The Pennsylvania Equine Council ex- tends a warm welcome to all horsemen traveling to the Horse World Expo and into our Commonwealth. As we kick off the beginning of our most active season, equine movement increases across state lines. For health safety (biosecurity) we encourage all visitors and residents to stay informed and take strong precautions to protect your horse – and all others. This is especially important in light of current concerns surrounding Equine Herpes- virus (EHV-1) and its neurologic form, EquineHerpesvirusMyeloencephalopathy (EHM). Though Pennsylvania is currently oper- ating under a Temporary Interstate Quar- antine Order, effective December 8, 2025, which adds documentation requirements for incoming horses to ensure they have not been exposed to or diagnosed with EHM, these precautions make for more secure travel everywhere. Recognizing the Symptoms of EHM is Key Early detection is vital. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, clinical signs of EHM may include: • Fever (may be intermittent) • Nasal discharge • Lethargy • Distal limb edema (swelling of lower legs) • Incoordination, especially in hind limbs • Hind limb weakness Loss of • Tail or bladder tone (urine dribbling or inability to urinate) • Dog-sitting posture, leaning on walls/fences for balance • Recumbency (inability to stand) Because many horses shed the virus without showing symptoms, strict pre- ventive measures are essential. Biosecurity Checklist for All Horse Owners The items listed in the checklist below are recommended by the PDA and veter- inary health authorities to reduce the risk of EHV/EHM transmission: The Before Traveling Checklist  Monitor and document your horse’s temperature twice daily.  Avoid transporting horses that show any signs of fever or illness.  Ensure vaccinations are current (note: no vaccine prevents the neuro logic form). During Travel or Events  Prevent nose-to-nose contact with unfamiliar horses.  Do not share buckets, grooming tools, tack, or equipment.  Bring your own water and feed containers.  Wash hands or use sanitizers between handling different horses. At Home or Upon Return  Quarantine all new or traveling horses for at least 21 days before reintroducing them to the herd.  Maintain separate equipment for isolated horses.  Disinfect stalls, trailers, tools, and any surfaces exposed to traveling horses. A Community Effort The Pennsylvania Equine Council is committed to supporting a healthy, thriv- ing equine community. By staying in- formed, respecting quarantine measures, andmaintaining strong biosecurity, we can safeguard the wellbeing of our horses and preserve the vitality of equestrian activities across the state. You can view the full Tem- porary PDA Quarantine Order order at https://www.pa.gov/agencies/pda/ animals/diseases/equine-herpesvirus [pa.gov] This Season Biosecurity for Travel Matters More Than Ever Currently Pennsylvania is operating under a temporary Interstate Quarantine Order. Documentation is required.