Streptococcus Equi bacteria
So it turns out the bacteria in Princes fetlock is the same bacteria that causes strangles. Do you think I'm not shitting myself now...I have 2 OLD mares who share a paddock with him, my 7 little ponies live just up the road, and I have my old t'bred gelding as well.
I will be in a world of trouble if this turns into a proper strangles infection incident.
I have gone into biosecurity mode, washing my hands and arms down with iodine between properties so I dont risk a cross infection. Not sharing brushes (which I havent done since Ruby was suspected of ringworm, anyway), not sharing feedbuckets or headcollars....I probably need to disinfect my shoes and clothes as well but is was totally impractical today.
But I'm not saying the infection starts with Prince. Vets, dentists and farriers have attended both Megz and my horses and ponies within the last month. These "professionals" can be the source of infection, as can horses passing by or on neighboring properties.
I have had all the ponies vaccinated because they can run the fencelines and say hello to strangers but because Jac and Tequia live in relative isolation I havent given them their annual boosters for about 5 years. Looks like its time to vaccinate the old girls if there is evidence the streptococcus bacteria is about!
Now to keep a close eye on everyone to identify any early symptoms. I just cant seem to get a break this month? Smeagol died, Duane had peritonitis then I had to get him gelded, Bellatart has a leaking UDDER, Ruby possibly has a goiter...or worse.
I will be calling the vet later this morning to arrange check-ups and early vaccination boosters etc.
Maybe 2011 will be less expensive? I have my fingers crossed. Please send me your good karma guys...I need it!
I will be in a world of trouble if this turns into a proper strangles infection incident.
I have gone into biosecurity mode, washing my hands and arms down with iodine between properties so I dont risk a cross infection. Not sharing brushes (which I havent done since Ruby was suspected of ringworm, anyway), not sharing feedbuckets or headcollars....I probably need to disinfect my shoes and clothes as well but is was totally impractical today.
But I'm not saying the infection starts with Prince. Vets, dentists and farriers have attended both Megz and my horses and ponies within the last month. These "professionals" can be the source of infection, as can horses passing by or on neighboring properties.
I have had all the ponies vaccinated because they can run the fencelines and say hello to strangers but because Jac and Tequia live in relative isolation I havent given them their annual boosters for about 5 years. Looks like its time to vaccinate the old girls if there is evidence the streptococcus bacteria is about!
Now to keep a close eye on everyone to identify any early symptoms. I just cant seem to get a break this month? Smeagol died, Duane had peritonitis then I had to get him gelded, Bellatart has a leaking UDDER, Ruby possibly has a goiter...or worse.
I will be calling the vet later this morning to arrange check-ups and early vaccination boosters etc.
Maybe 2011 will be less expensive? I have my fingers crossed. Please send me your good karma guys...I need it!