Horseback Magazine
WASHINGTON, (AHC) – Horse owners should be aware that Canada has imposed additional requirements on horses entering from the U.S. because of the outbreak of Vesicular Stomatitis (VS) in Arizona. This is the first outbreak of VS in the US in 2010. The U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Arizona Department of Agriculture are conducting an epidemiological investigation into the outbreak. The premises where the virus was discovered is under quarantine.
Several states have also imposed movement restrictions on horses from Arizona. For more information regarding possible State movement restrictions please contact your State Animal Health Official.
Canadian Restrictions
Canada is now prohibiting the importation of all horses from Arizona. In addition, horse owners shipping their horses into Canada from any other State must include the following certifications on the import permit and Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) in addition to those already required:
That the horse was inspected by a veterinarian within fifteen (15) days preceding the date of importation;
That the horse has not been in Arizona during the previous twenty-one (21) days;
That the horse has not been on a premise where VS occurred during the 60 days immediately preceding exportation to Canada, nor on a premise adjoining such a premise; and
That the horse tested negative to VS using a cELISA test during the fifteen (15) days prior to importation.
What is Vesicular Stomatitis?
The VS virus causes blister-like lesions in the mouth and on the tongue, lips, nostrils, hooves, and teats. These blisters swell and break, leaving raw tissue that may cause the animals to refuse to eat or drink and show signs of lameness, according to the Arizona Department of Agriculture. Severe weight loss usually follows.
Humans can also be infected with VS by handling affected animals. While horses, swine and cattle are most at risk, other animals may also contract the disease.
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