Discussion

This paper is not intended to be a discussion of individual equine exotic diseases that can be obtained from any textbook on the subject, rather it is a description of the differing roles of government and the equine practitioner, and how we should and do interact.
Unlike veterinary surgeons who treat production animals, equine practitioners are often unaware of their own role and responsibilities in the control and detection of equine exotic disease; exotic disease is something that only happens to 'someone else' - it's not all lameness, breeding and colic. An important part of the presentation will be a discussion of the similarities and differences in the disease control practices taken for granted in the livestock and equine sectors.

To illustrate what is required on a national and international basis to find and control exotic disease in equidae, this paper discusses many of the government activities that directly affect equine practitioners; most of these operational and policy-making activities go on to a great extent 'behind the scenes' and as a result are not apparent to those of you working in private practice. The session will be illustrated throughout by real, recent policy and operational examples; such as the African horse sickness control regulations, preparations for the Olympic Games 2012, recent equine infectious anaemia control operations, national and international surveillance for equine exotic disease, and the important role of the recently established Animal Health and Welfare Board for England.