Discussion

Introduction:

The occurrence of respiratory disease outbreaks on livery yards is common and presents a unique set of challenges diagnostically, politically and economically. The pathogens involved are diverse and range from a mild cold to life-threatening disease and/or highly contagious pathogens that can spread rapidly within the yard and to new equine premises. The initial clinician is faced with a challenge not to overreact but to proportionately respond to the disease threat; to implement appropriate treatment, control and prevention policies in order to stop the spread of disease (if it is a contagious pathogen) and to successfully cure the individual(s) affected. This is done with the challenging backdrop of multiple owners often with limited financial resources, resentment at having to finance tests which protect the herd rather than just the individual and multiple veterinary practices responsible for the health of the horses on the yard.

The key role of the yard managers/owners will be examined in this difficult dynamic as will the importance of inter-veterinary practice communication so that a unified response is seen between different veterinary surgeons/practices. Every outbreak is different and there are many diagnostic tools available with often many logical and appropriate ways of using them.