Information on patients in the quarantine stall

If your horse is suspected to be carrying an infectious disease, for example because it has a fever or diarrhoea, it may be placed in the quarantine stall. We do this to protect the other horses from the spread of potential infectious diseases your horse may have. We can imagine that you might have questions about this measure. Some of the most frequently-asked questions are listed here below. If you still have questions after reading this information, please contact the attending veterinarian.

May I come visit my horse?

In order to limit the risk of the spread of infections, it is best if you do not visit your horse while it is in the quarantine stall. If you must visit your horse, you can make an appointment to do so during office hours and under supervision. During the visit, please go directly to your horse’s quarantine stall, do not visit the rest of the clinic and go straight home afterwards, as this will reduce the risk of the spread of the infection.

What risks are involved?

There is a danger that you can carry the pathogen with you and transfer it to another horse if you do not abide by the quarantine regulations.

Am I at risk too?

There are a number of infectious diseases that can be transferred from horses to people (so-called ‘zoonosis’). If we suspect that your horse is infected with one of these diseases, then the attending veterinarian will discuss the risks involved with you.

Are my other animals at home or at the stables at risk?

That depends on what kind of disease your horse has. The attending veterinarian will provide information about any risks involved.

Should I keep my horse separated from other animals when it comes home, and if so, for how long?

That depends on what kind of disease your horse has. The attending veterinarian will provide information about any risks involved.

Will my horse be well cared for in the quarantine stall?

Of course we will give your horse the best possible care while it is in the quarantine stall. However, we will try to enter the stall as little as possible. All quarantine stalls are equipped with closed-circuit cameras, so we can constantly monitor the animals from the veterinarian’s office.

Will my horse be able to move around in the quarantine stall?

In principle, no. Horses in quarantine often have an illness that requires them to get plenty of rest. However, there are situations in which your horse will have to be led by the halter outside. In these situations, we will work to avoid any contact with other animals. Your horse will not be led by a treadmill, as this would increase the risk of infecting other animals.