Due to the serious outbreak of equine influenza (horse flu) in Australia a stock standstill is in place in some areas that applies to the movement of horses, ponies and donkeys. The standstill is critical in containing the disease and needs to be maintained if eradication is to be successful.
If you live in an area where a stock standstill applies do not move horses, ponies and donkeys. This applies equally to recreational horse and donkey owners and the horse race industry.
Check with the local Department of Primary Industries to see if these restrictions apply to your area.
In addition, owners can adopt simple measures to protect their animals from equine influenza.
1. Do not move your horses, donkeys, their equipment, or floats/trucks off your property if you live in an area where a stock standstill applies. Contact your Department of Primary Industries for advice on local movement restrictions.
2. Keep watch for signs of the disease. Inspect your horses and donkeys daily for signs that include: a rise in temperature; a deep, dry, hacking cough; and, nasal discharge. If you suspect your horse, pony or donkey has equine influenza call the national Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888. Animals will not be killed to eradicate this disease, they are simply quarantined until they return to full health.
3. Keep clean by washing hands and arms with soap and put clothes through a full washing machine cycle after handling horses. Disinfect footwear, horse/donkey equipment and vehicles before and after contact with these animals. Household disinfectants are usually sufficient.
4. Keep out of other properties with horses, ponies and donkeys, and keep unnecessary visitors off your property. Where possible, create a buffer zone between you and your neighbours. Ensure boundary fences are secure.
Remember, as a horse, pony or donkey owner it is important that you help prevent the spread of equine influenza. Abide by the movement restrictions and put good biosecurity practices into place to protect your animals.
For more information phone 1800 234 002 or visit www.outbreak.gov.a