Strangles Awareness Week 2025: Protect Your Horses with the BEST Approach

Strangles is not only one of the most contagious but also one of the most commonly diagnosed equine diseases worldwide—and it poses a real threat to horses across the United States. Thus, from May 5th to 11th, Strangles Awareness Week offers an important opportunity for horse owners, barn managers, and equine professionals to come together and take action to protect their horses.

What Is Strangles?

Strangles is caused by the bacterium *Streptococcus equi* and primarily affects a horse’s upper respiratory tract. It spreads easily through direct contact between horses, contaminated equipment, water, feed, and even human handlers. Common symptoms include:

- High fever

- Nasal discharge

- Swollen, painful lymph nodes that may abscess

- Difficulty eating or swallowing

In severe cases, strangles can be life-threatening and may require extended quarantine to prevent further spread.

The BEST Way to Prevent Strangles

Prevention is indeed key to controlling strangles outbreaks. The easy-to-remember BEST acronym guides horse owners on essential steps to reduce risk:

- Boost immunity with strangles vaccination

- Engage with trusted, evidence-based information

- Separate unfamiliar or new horses from your herd

- Temp check horses routinely to catch early signs

Implementing these practices can significantly reduce the chance of infection; hence, helping protect your barn and community.

Why Strangles Awareness Week Matters

Awareness campaigns like Strangles Awareness Week help spread vital knowledge about biosecurity, early detection, and vaccination—empowering horse owners to act quickly and responsibly.

How You Can Help Protect Horses This May

- Stay informed: Follow reputable sources such as veterinary associations and equine health organizations for the latest advice.

- Practice good biosecurity: Regularly disinfect stalls, equipment, and tack; isolate new or sick horses; and encourage handwashing among handlers.

- Monitor your horses: Take temperatures daily and watch for any signs of illness.

- Vaccinate: Consult your vet about strangles vaccination to boost your horses’ immunity.

By sharing these prevention tips with your barn community and fellow horse owners, you contribute to a safer environment for all equines.

Stable Cover Supports Strangles Awareness Week

At Stable Cover, we understand the importance of protecting your horses from infectious diseases like strangles. Therefore, we encourage all horse owners and equine professionals to use Strangles Awareness Week as a reminder to review biosecurity measures and vaccination plans.

Together, we can reduce the spread of strangles and, as a result, keep our horses healthy and thriving.

‍