Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
2015
Samford Equestrian Group Inc.
Affiliated with the Equestrian Federation of Australia
Risk Management, Biosecurity &
Crisis Management Contingency Plan
Last Updated 26-February-2008
Contents
Contacts ..................................................................................................................................... 3
Hendra Virus & Equine Influenza ............................................................................................... 5
Hendra Guidelines ................................................................................................................. 5
Actions On Suspicion of Hendra ............................................................................................ 5
Equine Influenza Guidelines .................................................................................................. 6
EI and People ......................................................................................................................... 6
Signs of EI ............................................................................................................................... 6
Actions on Suspicion of EI ...................................................................................................... 6
Risk Management ...................................................................................................................... 8
General ................................................................................................................................... 8
Venue ..................................................................................................................................... 9
The Public ............................................................................................................................. 10
Special Considerations for Showjumping Events ................................................................. 10
Pre-Event Advice to Competitors ........................................................................................ 11
Biosecurity................................................................................................................................ 12
Parking and Layout............................................................................................................... 12
People .................................................................................................................................. 13
Vehicles and fomites ............................................................................................................ 14
Veterinary assessments ....................................................................................................... 14
Contingency planning guidelines from DPI&F and AUSVETPLAN ............................................ 15
Event Standstill Management Structure and Responsibilities ................................................ 17
Record Keeping ........................................................................................................................ 23
General Information – Horse Assessment ............................................................................... 24
Signs to query....................................................................................................................... 25
General Information on Travel ................................................................................................ 26
Additional Information on Transporting Long Distances..................................................... 26
Pleuropneumonia – Travelling Sickness/Shipping Fever ..................................................... 26
What Causes Travel Sickness? ............................................................................................. 26
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Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
2015
What to Watch For – The Danger Signs ............................................................................... 28
Recommendations to Help Prevent Pleuropneumonia (Travel Sickness) ........................... 28
Laminitis ............................................................................................................................... 29
Off Food/Water – weight loss and dehydration .................................................................. 29
Suggested Travel Medical Kit ............................................................................................... 29
Tips to reduce Travelling Diseases ....................................................................................... 30
Pre-Travelling Treatment Suggestions ................................................................................. 30
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Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
Contacts
Ambulance: 000
Hospitals:
Wesley Hospital
451 Coronation Drive
( Cnr Coronation Drv and Chasely Street)
Auchenflower
24 Hour Emergency Centre
General Enquiries
Parking off Chasely Street
Brisbane Private Hospital
259 Wickham Terrace, Brisbane.
Fire Brigade:
Samford Rural Fire Brigade
Station Rd
Samford
Veterinarians:
Samford Valley Veterinary Surgery
(07) 3232 7333
(07) 3232 7000
(07) 3834 6111
Emergency: 000
(07) 3289 1441
3289 1322 press 2
Dayboro Vets
3425 1544
Old Mill Veterinary Surgery
3425 2222
Richard Hansen
Samford
0419 676 284
Farriers:
Bio Security:
Biosecurity Queensland
National Disease Watch hotline
3
13 25 23 (business hours)
1800 675 888
2015
Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
Local Suppliers:
Gleam O’Dawn
3289 1699
Stables at Samford
3289 2188
Samford Hire
3289 6831
Samford Hardware & Produce
3289 1219
Robinson Sawdust Supplier
5433 1478
Steve McCabe Water Carrier
3425 1521
Samford Water Carriers
0417 744 702
Cedarvale Spelling & Agistment
3289 4020
Gypsie Lodge Equestrian Centre
3289 9393
Madison Park Agistment
0411 129 916
Kartaway
1300 362 362
4
Cleanaway
Emergency Spill Response
General Waste
1800 SPILLS
13 1339
Samford Typing and Copy Centre
3289 5241
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Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
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Hendra Virus & Equine Influenza
Hendra Guidelines
Hendra virus is not highly contagious and the horse industry is not subject to movement
restrictions for Hendra virus, except for any properties under quarantine.
Ensure that good biosecurity measures are followed to minimise the risk of spreading any
diseases, such as Hendra virus. Event organisers should, as a minimum:
 prepare and implement a biosecurity plan (this plan)
 collect information on all horses attending the event
 maintain strict biosecurity at the event
 not allow sick horses to attend the event
Competitors should always practise good biosecurity and hygiene for themselves and their
horses, and should not take sick horses to events.
Actions On Suspicion of Hendra
Contact the ‘on call’ veterinarian immediately.
If you are unable to reach the veterinarian, notify a government veterinarian or Biosecurity
Queensland officer—there is a legal obligation to do this.
Clearly explain that you are calling to report a suspected case of Hendra virus infection. Let
the officer know if there has been human exposure to body fluids from the sick horse.
Report suspected cases by contacting:
• Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23 (business hours) or
• the Emergency Animal Disease Watch Hotline on 1800 675 888 (24-hour hotline).
Follow all instructions from the Department. This may include a lockdown.
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Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
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Equine Influenza Guidelines
Initiate immediate temporary lockdown upon suspicion if Equine Influenza
Equine Influenza is highly contagious and is rapidly spread through close direct contact
between horses. Infected horses excrete the virus in their expired air for up to 14 days after
initial infection. Coughing contributes to the spread. A ‘do not delay action’ policy applies.
Infection can also be spread via clothing, horse equipment, people, buildings that have
recently housed sick horses, vehicles, floats, grooming and veterinary instruments. Anything
that comes into contact with an infected horse should be carefully and thoroughly
decontaminated.
The virus survives in the environment for up to 36 hours but is easily killed by cleaning and
disinfection.
EI and People
Humans do not get infected with equine influenza. However, humans can physically carry
the virus on their skin, hair, clothing and shoes, and can therefore transfer the virus to other
horses. It is vital that you shower and wash carefully, wash your hair and put on a
completely fresh set of clothes (including shoes) after contact with any horses (including
your own horses) that might be infected. The virus can also be physically carried on
equipment and vehicles.
Signs of EI
The main clinical signs of equine influenza (EI) are usually a sudden increase in temperature
(to between 39°C and 41°C), a deep, dry, hacking cough, and a watery nasal discharge which
may later become thick and smelly.
Watch a video of the clinical symptoms.
Other signs can include depression, loss of appetite, laboured breathing, and muscle pain
and stiffness.
Actions on Suspicion of EI
As infected horses or donkeys are subject to a standstill restriction in order to prevent
spread of the disease. Initiate lockdown immediately upon suspicion of EI.
Contact the ‘on call’ veterinarian immediately.
If you are unable to reach the veterinarian, notify a government veterinarian or Biosecurity
Queensland officer—there is a legal obligation to do this.
Clearly explain that you are calling to report a suspected case of Equine Influenza infection.
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Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
Report suspected cases by contacting:
• Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23 (business hours) or
• the Emergency Animal Disease Watch Hotline on 1800 675 888 (24-hour hotline).
Follow all instructions from the Department. This may include a lockdown.
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Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
2015
Risk Management
General

The Executive Committee must appoint a Committee member to be responsible
for safety and risk management at the event (Safety Officer/Risk Management
Officer). This may be encompassed into the Competition Boss/Head of Organising
Committee role.

At Club events and other activities, the Safety Officer and the delegated official of
the day, or any committee member in attendance on the day, each have the
authority of the Club Committee to make any decision necessary in relation to any
matter concerning safety.

The Safety Officer, the Venue Manager and at least one other member of the
organising committee must inspect all areas of the venue that are likely to be
used. If necessary, they will discuss with the venue manager/property owner any
potential hazards that require attention before the event is run.

Inspections of higher-risk areas (e.g. spectator areas, catering and meal areas)
should be repeated during the event as appropriate.

All events follow the rules of the EFA or the FEI. This includes “unofficial” and
“associate” classes where intent of the rules must still apply.

Volunteers and other event personnel must have the required experience and
knowledge or must be appropriately trained and supervised before commencing
duties.

As appropriate, Volunteers must have a valid QLD government Blue Card.

All event personnel should know and understand safety procedures.

Unusual occurrences must be recorded for future safety considerations.

The Organising Committee
documentation.

There must be a list of emergency services contact details.

First Aid kits and basic veterinary tools should be on site and easily accessible.

All participants should sign waiver/release forms.

Dogs are not permitted on the grounds under any circumstances
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must
have
appropriate
crisis management
Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
2015
Venue

The venue must meet all safety requirements of the event.

Electric fencing must be sign-posted.

All pickets must have an appropriate cap or cover to prevent injury.

Arena(s):
Arenas must be defined clearly and use appropriate surrounds.
- It is important to maintain a distance of 15 metres if possible but at least 10
metres between the public and the arenas.
- It is important to maintain a distance of 15 metres if possible at least 10
metres between the warm-up area and other arenas.
- The horse warm-up area(s) must be adequate for the number of horses.
- The number of horses in the warm-up area needs to be controlled to avoid
potential accidents.

Parking: Parking areas must be safe and of sufficient size to permit safe
movement of vehicles at all times.

Spectators: Spectators attend at their own risk. However this risk must be
managed by providing safe viewing areas. It is important that all minors are under
the care and control of the accompanying adult at all times.

Vehicles: Vehicle, spectator and horse traffic should be kept separate and should
be controlled or at least clearly marked where they intersect. Entry to and exit
from the venue should be safe for trucks and floats.

Camping: Where electricity/gas is available these must be stored appropriately
and all cables/pipes properly covered and/or fenced. Similar precautions relating
to electricity and gas apply elsewhere.

Horse warm-up areas: The horse warm-up area(s) must be adequate for the
number of horses and must be kept free of public spectators

Emergency personnel: Appropriate personnel (doctor, veterinarian, etc.) should
attend where required by the rules of the Safety Officer.

Float Parking:
Vehicle drivers must ensure that horse floats are parked a sufficient
distance (around 9 metres) from other floats to enable a horse to be
tethered to each float and to move around without coming so close to
another horse as to permit one horse to kick the other or to damage
vehicles.
Parking should be organized in a way that does not block the exit for others.
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Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
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2015
Spectator Parking:
Spectator parking must be in a separate marked area, away from the Float
parking and contact with horses for Biosecurity and public safety reasons.
Parking should be organized in a way that does not block the exit for others.
Horse Welfare:
- At all stages of training and competition, the welfare of the horse must take
precedent over all other things.

-
If a tethered horse is known to have a propensity to kick or engage in any
activity that might be a danger to a passerby, that horse must be attended by
a suitably experienced person at all times whilst it is tethered.
-
All horses must be tethered in accordance with good practice.
-
Any horse that is behaving in a manner considered to be dangerous to any
personnel may be required to leave an event. Any horse so required to leave
will be taken to have scratched from any competition for which it is entered
on that day: the horse will not be permitted to be ridden in that competition.
The Public

There are no restrictions on members of the general public attending any Club
event. It should be assumed that members of the general public are not familiar
with the behaviour of horses and do not know how to handle them or how to
behave in their presence. Accordingly, persons riding or handling a horse must be
especially alert for the presence of members of the general public (including in
particular children).

Members of the public should not, as a general rule, be permitted to enter an area
that is occupied by competitors. This will include parking areas, areas where
horses are tethered or being walked, stables, wash bays and warm up areas.
Special Considerations for Showjumping Events

The Course Designer must have the appropriate accreditation.

The Judge/Ground Jury and/or the Technical Delegate must inspect and approve
the course.

Practice fences must be flagged. The number of “helpers” in the arena should be
kept to a minimum.

Potential hazards can be, among others:
(a) unnecessary cups in wings
(b) incorrectly positioned ground rails
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Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
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(c) loose cups under wings
(e) arena crowded with grooms, bystanders, etc.
Pre-Event Advice to Competitors
Primary responsibility for biosecurity at horse events lies with the horse
owners/competitors, long before the event. Wherever possible, event material should
contain reminders of basic bio-security processes. Some examples are below:

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not to bring sick horses to the event. Sick animals may get worse during transport
and infect other horses. Visually inspect horses to be transported and check rectal
temperatures on the morning of the event. If in doubt, ask your vet to examine the
horse.
to provide truthful, accurate information as required
to complete an Horse Health Declaration for each horse and hand it to the
registration steward or secretary or the horse health official
to carry out instructions from the horse health official
to monitor their horse’s health throughout the event and notify the horse health
official if they see any signs of illness.
If you notice strange behaviour or signs of disease in your horse, or any horse, report
it immediately to the event organiser so they can determine the risk to other horses.
Do not move the horse.
If you are at the event for longer than one day, take your horse’s rectal temperature
regularly. A rectal temperature above 38.5 degrees suggests disease.
not to share tack and equipment between horses
to ensure each horse has its own water and feed bucket
not to use communal water troughs
to minimise contact between horses
to minimise contact between other people and your horse(s).Discourage people
from touching your horse as this is a key way for disease to spread from horse to
horse.
not to allow horses to eat any other horse’s feed
to take home any leftover feed or place in designated compost site
to wash hands between horse contacts. Wash your hands with clean water, or
disinfect with waterless hand sanitiser.
After the event, event entrants should:

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clean and disinfect all horse equipment and the horse transport vehicle
have a thorough shower, wash hair and blow their nose to expel any inhaled
bacterial or viral particles
change into clean clothes
continue to monitor the health of the horse(s)
report any unusual signs of disease to their veterinarian
isolate returning horses from other horses as much as is practical.
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Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
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Biosecurity Plan
Parking and Layout
These minimum biosecurity measures will be followed to minimise the risk of transfer of
infection when held at the SEG grounds or other SEG hosted events.
In wet weather the layout is as below. This is because the Denis Goodwin Reserve can
become boggy in parts. The Non-HeV section on the reserve tends to stay sufficiently firm
except in an extreme weather event.
The isolation area for a sick horse/s will be in the southern most point of the VIP parking
area. Ensure cars are moved prior to positioning the ill horse.
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Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
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People
The event layout is as below.

Unnecessary contact between spectators and horses will be minimised. Separate
pedestrian/spectator fenced and marked areas will be created (see above
picture).

All people should wash hands with antimicrobial solution on entering and leaving
the grounds.

All people must present themselves to the venue in a clean manner having
undertaken appropriate personal hygiene measures. This will include showering,
washing hair and changing clothes prior to attending.

There will be strategically placed hand wash stations around the venue, and
people will be encouraged to wash their hands after handling any horses or
equipment with which a horse could have been in contact.

Public address announcements will be made on a regular basis on biosecurity
matters. Appropriate and prominent signage on biosecurity will be on display
throughout the venue.
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Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
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
All persons leaving the venue will be reminded to wash their hands, wash off any
residual debris that may be on their boots/clothing and be reminded strongly of
their biosecurity obligations on return home i.e. shower and change clothes
before going near any other horses. This will be provided in the form of a
document for people to take with them.

All persons will be advised not to share tack or equipment on the day.
Competitors will be requested to bring their own feed bins and water buckets
and avoid the use of communal water troughs.

Approved persons requiring close contact with horses – e.g. veterinarians,
farriers, will be limited and understand their biosecurity obligations and take all
measures to minimise the risk of transfer of Exotic Diseases through their
equipment.
Vehicles and fomites

Vehicles used for transfer horses to the venue will be presented in a clean state
to the event.

Disinfection of the vehicle must occur prior to use with any other horses.

Participants will be reminded that all equipment to be used with the horses must
be cleaned prior to travel to the venue.

No other dogs are allowed to be present in the event.
Veterinary assessments

There will be a nominated veterinarian available on call 24/7 for the duration of
the event. The health status of all horses must be monitored daily and any
change in health status immediately reported to the veterinarian on duty.

The nominated Veterinarian has the required equipment to test for Exotic
Diseases e.g. EI:-nasal swabs/blood testing/decontamination kits

The health status of each horse at the venue will be monitored daily by the
competitor and any changes reported to the vet on duty.

An isolation stable/area will be identified to handle sick horses.

Any horse showing a cough or nasal discharge will be removed to the isolation
stable immediately and PCR samples collected immediately and sent for high
priority testing. The horse’s temperature should also be taken, although it is
recognised this may not be a sensitive indicator for EI in a vaccinated horse. .

A register of horses with clinical signs of respiratory disease will be kept by the
vet on duty and be available for inspection by DPI.
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Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
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Contingency planning guidelines from DPI&F and AUSVETPLAN
In the case of an outbreak of EI or other Exotic Disease at an SEG hosted event, the venue
will have the facilities and resources to secure the site for a period of at least 30 days after
the last confirmed case. This is to meet the AUSVETPLAN guidelines to release an IP from 30
days after the last clinical symptoms of EI.
Special Equine Influenza requirements will be:
1. Any horses at the event showing respiratory signs consistent with Equine Influenza
shall be isolated and the on-duty veterinarian and DPI&F informed.
2. To have a nominated veterinarian on call (24 hours, 7 days)/or at the venue, to
examine concerned horse and isolate to quarantine area and take nasal swabs for
PCR testing for diagnosis (24 - 36 hours to get results).
3. Temporary lockdown can be lifted on advice of veterinarian,
4. If positive PCR, inform all participants.
3.1 Competitors that have already left the event shall be traced and informed via
telephone, and:


Red Zone- Horses that attended the Event –
o horse that attended the event are isolated from all other horses on
property
o property is quarantined for 14 days with no on/off movement of all
horses.
o monitor and ensure good biosecurity measures
o horses are kept off fence lines to avoid contact
Amber/Green Zones- on property monitoring/biosecurity of their horses shall
be increased and all horses quarantined on their property.
3.2 Competitors still at Event are informed that due to the EI outbreak and the
following procedures need to take place.
RED ZONE EVENTS
 Horses from within the Red Zone can return to their property of
origin for home quarantine and undertake good biosecurity
measures.
 Horses from Amber Zone have to stay on site in “lock down” at the
Event venue for up to 30 days after the last reported case of EI.
 Horses from Green Zone have to stay on site in “lock down” at the
Event venue for up to 30 days after the last reported case of EI.
AMBER ZONE EVENTS
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Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
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2015
All horses are quarantined at the Event venue for up to 30 days. PCR
testing all horses before release. If PCR positive, blood tests
(serology) shall be required. If serology positive, therefore the horse is
immune, and the horse can return home.
All horses leaving venue shall apply to DPI&F for movement permit.
GREEN ZONE EVENTS
 All horses are quarantined at the Event venue for up to 30 days. PCR
testing all horses before release. If PCR positive, blood tests
(serology) shall be required. If serology positive, therefore the horse is
immune, and the horse can return home.
 All horses leaving venue shall apply to DPI&F for movement permit.
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Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
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Event Standstill Management Structure and Responsibilities
The following items have been added to the SEG Event Checklist as of 2008 and must be
completed in preparation for every competition or event held at the SEG venue.
TITLE
RESPONSIBILITIES
NOMINATED
OFFICER
Event Co-ordinator

SEG Committee
Member who is
Event Coordinator

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Venue Manager

Publicity Manager

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Equine Health
Manager


17
Upon receipt of Standstill order from DPI,
notify all parties involved with the venue
of provisions of the order ASAP.
Make initial announcements at event to
keep competitors informed.
Following initial response, ensure that all
areas of responsibility are being
addressed.
Coordinate holding arrangements for
horses
Coordinate response for duration of
movement restrictions
Provide assistance as required to DPI
officer or representative
On non event day, upon receipt of
Standstill order from DPI, convey relevant
information to all people who use the
venue as a training facility by the fastest
possible means.
Contact Showground Caretakers
Repeat initial announcements to inform
competitors
Liaise with DPI officials and post regular
bulletins to ensure that participants are
fully informed of situation and
requirements.
Spokesperson to manage local public
relations on behalf of venue and event
organisers and provide information about
disease response operations specific to
the affected venue.
Check horses reported as showing signs of
EI at the event. Notify the DPI if suspicious
clinical signs exist.
Provide assistance to DPI officer or
appointed veterinarian as directed.
SEG Vice President
SEG President
SEG Treasurer
Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
2015
TITLE
RESPONSIBILITIES
NOMINATED
OFFICER
Movement Officer

SEG Nominations
Coordinator


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Tracing Officer

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Supply Officer

Catering Officer

Disinfection Officer

Hygiene Officer

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
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Upon notification of standstill secure and
maintain security of all exits.
Prevent unauthorised entry or exit until
the order is revoked.
During quarantine period assist DPI
officers to ensure that movement
restrictions are met
HIGHEST PRIORITY. Immediately an Order
is received from DPI. There must be 24
hour security coverage until the Order is
revoked or expires.
Ensure accurate details of horses and
persons in attendance including details of
origin and destination are recorded.
In event of lockdown of venue due to
suspected EI determine which horses have
left the venue and assist DPI officer in
tracing of horses.
In event of a standstill or quarantine,
coordinate provision of equine supplies
and services including feeding and
watering requirements.
In event of a standstill, coordinate
provision of meals & essential supplies
Under direction of DPI officer, ensure that
disinfection requirements are met
Coordinate arrangements for
management of stable waste.
Arrange provision of sufficient toilet and
shower facilities and coordinate cleaning
roster
Coordinate collection and disposal of
waste
SEG Nominations
Coordinator
SEG Secretary
SEG Secretary
working with
Caterer for Event
SEG Vice President
SEG Treasurer
Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
2015
The resource checklist below outlines resources that may be required if horses are detained
in temporary accommodation at a venue during a disease emergency. The resource
checklist is included to encourage event organisers and venue managers to determine
potential sources of essential items and the likely quantities required, in advance of any
disease emergency.
The items and quantities will vary according to the size of affected enterprise, the number
of horses detained, the duration of the standstill and whether the venue subsequently is
declared an Infected Premises. Some of the items may already be available on site.
ITEM(S)
Feed and water
Grains,
concentrates etc.
Hay
Water Onsite
Comment
No. of horses will vary as
time of year
If limited, consider water
tankers
Hay Nets
Feed bins
Water Buckets
Bedding
Waste Disposal
Wheelbarrows
Rakes, Shovels, Pitchforks
Brooms
Rubbish Bags
Commercial Garbage
Skips
Horse accommodation
Existing stables on
Tie-up Stalls
Showgrounds could be
used
Stables
Yards
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Supplier/s
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Gleam O’Dawn
Samford Produce
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Steve McCabe
Samford Water Carriers
Gleam O’Dawn
Stables at Samford
Gleam O’Dawn
Samford Hardware
Samford Produce
Gleam O’Dawn
Stables at Samford
Samford Hardware
Bunnings
Gleam O’Dawn
Samford Produce
Robinson Sawdust
Supplier
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Gleam O’Dawn
Samford Hardware
Bunnings
IGA
Samford Hardware
Kartaway
Cleanaway
No.
required?
Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
Temporary
yards
Nearest
Alternative
yards/stables
DPI risk assessment would
be required before any
movement to alternative
accommodation
Lighting
Portable
generator/s
Portable
floodlight/s
Torches and
batteries
Extension Cords
Power boards
Cleaning and Disinfection
Disinfectant for hands, foot
bath, vehicle, stables,
equipment
Paper hand towels
Foot baths rubber/plastic
Pressurised Water cleaners
Hoses
Disinfectant sprayers
Plastic scrubbing brush,
Boot pick
Diagnostic equipment
Protective clothing for vets
and assistants
Vet Supplies (Swabs,
needles, sharps containers,
Vacutainers, sample tins)
Thermometers
Twitch
Disposable Gloves
20
Cedarvale Spelling &
Agistment
Gypsie Lodge Equestrian
Centre
Madison Park Agistment

Samford Hire

Samford Hire




IGA
Samford Hardware
Samford Hardware
Samford Hardware
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
Samford Valley Vets
IGA
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

IGA
Samford Hardware
Samford Hire
Samford Hardware
Samford Hire

IGA
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Samford Valley Vets
Dayboro Vets
Old Mill Vets
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IGA
Samford Hardware
2015
Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
Grounds Security
Padlocks
Chain
Star pickets
Showgrounds are already
secured with locks
SEG already owns a
number of star pickets with 
caps
Sledge hammer
Rope
Hessian Sacking –
rolls
Signage

Movement controls/Horse Identification
Placed around a section
of mane hair to
Blank sticky
correspond with
labels
movement permit
number
Horse Clippers
To clip out brands
Microchip
scanner
Communications
Public Address
system
Internet Access,
Email
Phone Lines
Mobile Phones
Portable radio
handsets
Fax Machine
Computer
Printer and
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2015
Showground Caretakers
Samford Hire – 3289
6831

Samford Typing and Copy
Centre – 3289 5241

Samford Valley Vets – 3289
1322
SEG already owns a small
 Samford Hire – 3289 6831
PA system
Would need to arrange
 Telstra Shop Mitchelton
temporary wireless
(Brookside Shopping
broadband access card
Centre) - 3355 0006
No phone lines at the SEG grounds – would need to rely on mobile
phones
Use SEG committee member
 Telstra Shop
phones and reimburse for
Mitchelton (Brookside
costs or purchase temporary
Shopping Centre) prepaid phones
3355 0006
 Samford Hire – 3289
SEG already owns a number
6831
of hand radios. Show Society
 Showground
may also have a limited
Caretakers –
number.
0414479959
Items needing to be faxed
 Samford Typing and
could be sent to Samford
Copy Centre – 3289
Copy Centre
5241
SEG already owns a laptop

which is used at Events
SEG already owns a printer
 Samford Typing and
Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
supplies
Photocopier
Scanner
which is used at Events
Large items needing to be
photocopied could be
electronic provided to
Samford Copy Centre –
otherwise printer will copy
Items needing to be scanned
could be sent to Samford
Copy Centre
Copy Centre – 3289
5241

Samford Typing and
Copy Centre – 3289
5241

Samford Typing and
Copy Centre – 3289
5241
Hospitality – People concerns (if horses detained for a prolonged period of time)
 Eagle Boy Pizza - 3289
3100
Use local food outlets and
 Samford Chicken - 3289
Catering
fast food delivery companies
2911
 Samford Delicatessen &
Takeaway - 3289 1615
Use of Showground
Accommodation pavilions as possible

temporary accommodation
SEG has access to Polocrosse
toilets. Need to confirm
Toilets and
 Onsite Rentals Supaloos
with Showgrounds if shower
Showers
& Portawash
facilities exist in main
complex.
Information
leaflets
Human First Aid
A first aid officer is present
 Suzanne Johnson
Kit
at all SEG events
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2015
Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
2015
Record Keeping
All competitors must supply a signed Horse Health Declaration upon arrival at an event.
Policy is to provide a Horse Health Declaration consistent with the current Equestrian
Australia / Equestrian Queensland document.
At a minimum it should include:
All horses:
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

name
identification (brand/microchip number, sex, colour)
PIC (property identification code), location where the horse came from as well as the
location of where the horse is going.
All competitors and people in charge of horses:

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name
address
Phone numbers.
Records of event attendance are to be kept for six months.
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Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
2015
General Information – Horse Assessment
The following table provides the 'normal' vital signs for an adult horse/pony at rest, and how
you can check them.
Normal Range (at rest)
Temperature
Pulse/Heart
Respiration
37-38oC
Approx. 38 beats per
minute
Mucous
Membranes
Membranes
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The easiest way to take your horse's heart rate
is with a stethoscope. Stand at the horse's lefthand shoulder and place the stethoscope on the
chest (just inside the front leg/in line with the
elbow). You may need to move it around a bit to
find the heart. Alternatively, the pulse can be
found under the jaw or on the underside of the
horse's dock.
Observe the rib cage's inwards and outwards
movements. Alternatively, place your hand in
8-15 breaths per minute front of the nostril to feel the exhalation.
The pinch test - pinch the skin on the horse's
neck. The skin should flatten within one second
of releasing it. The longer it takes for it to flatten
is a measure of the dehydration level.
Dehydration
Capillary Refill
Time
How to measure
Insert a thermometer into the horse's rectum.
Read the temperature after one minute. Digital
thermometers are easier to use and will 'bip'
once the temperature has been read.
1-2 seconds
Linings of the eyelids,
gums and inside the
nostrils. The normal
colour is a moist pink.
Lift the horse's upper lip. Press your thumb
firmly against the gums for two seconds. This
will leave a white mark. Normal pink colour
should return within 1-2 seconds
Abnormal: Very pale pink, bright red, grey,
bluish or yellow.
Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
2015
Signs to query
• not eating normally.
• with an abnormally runny nose or abnormal cough
• with unusual neurological (nervous) signs
• with a temperature above 38.5°C (more than two hours after unloading from transport).
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Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
2015
General Information on Travel
Additional Information on Transporting Long Distances
Below is some information regarding the transportation of horses over large distances.
A horse being transported long distances may experience stress and discomfort that could
precipitate disease. Fortunately – these are rare occurrences that can be mitigated with
good management.
A summary of the diseases associated with the transport/travelling of horses;
The Major Diseases/Problems are:
o
o
o
o
o
Pleuropneumonia – Travelling Sickness
Laminitis
Off Food/Water – weight loss and dehydration
Colic/Enteritis/Colitis Syndrome
Stress/Anxiety
Pleuropneumonia – Travelling Sickness/Shipping Fever
"Travel sickness" is the colloquial term used to describe the bacterial disease in the lungs
and chest cavity in horses that sometimes follows road and air transportation. The condition
is technically known as pleuropneumonia, and apart from being associated with
transportation, it may also develop following viral illness ("colds"), strenuous exercise, or
general anaesthesia and surgery.
What Causes Travel Sickness?


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The horse's respiratory tract has a number of defence mechanisms which are
involved in the removal of secretions and debris from the lungs to the throat, and in
the destruction of bacteria in the lungs. While a horse is being transported,
particularly over long distances (and therefore over a long time), these defence
mechanisms are compromised and there is impairment of the horse's ability to clear
normal contaminants, thereby allowing increased numbers of bacteria to gain access
to the lung tissue. Horses can undergo considerable stress when they are
transported for any significant length of time. There are a number of important
factors involved: Most horses will lose weight during transportation for extended
periods since they are unlikely to drink or eat much during this time. The water loss
will lead to a drying of the lining of the airways, thereby reducing the ability of the
lungs and trachea (windpipe) to clear bacteria and airway mucus.
There is considerable muscular activity, particularly during road transportation, as
the horse works hard to retain its footing. The increases in muscle enzymes after 6
hours of road transportation are equivalent to those after a race.
There are changes in stress hormone levels as a result of transportation. The most
important hormonal change is an increase in cortisol levels, which is associated with
reduced immunity and can reduce the ability of cells within the lungs and airways to
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Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
2015
destroy bacteria. Factors such as age, gender and the degree of prior experience can
influence how a particular horse responds to this stress.
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Transport of horses is usually associated with the confinement of horses in individual
compartments with their heads elevated. Studies at the University of Sydney's
Veterinary Faculty have shown that when horses are unable to lower their heads for
a period of time, they are unable to clear their normal airway secretions. The
inability to periodically lower the head is associated with greatly increased numbers
of bacteria in the airways. Continued confinement leads to the accumulation of pus
in the airways, with further impairment of the clearance of secretions.
Inadequate ventilation within transport vehicles and the inhalation of exhaust gases
and small particles may be associated with the accumulation of substances which
impair clearance of secretions, damage the lining of the airways, or impair the ability
of lung cells to kill bacteria.
The combination of these factors can lead to inflammation of the airways with
damage to the airway lining, bacterial invasion of the lung tissue (pneumonia), and
extension into the pleural space (pleuritis). Affected horses are febrile, depressed
and can appear colicky. Intensive treatment with antibiotics is required to manage
horses with pleuropneumonia. In severe cases, return to athletic function is unlikely,
and death is not uncommon. Studies at the University of Sydney have shown that
the bacteria involved in pleuropneumonia are not spread from horse to horse but
are "opportunistic pathogens", that is, bacteria which normally live in parts of the
body without causing disease, but due to factors such as those outlined above, can
infect other parts of the body such as the lungs which normally do not have a
resident bacterial population. The bacteria isolated in the lungs of sick horses appear
to be the same as those found in the mouth and throat of normal horses.
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Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
2015
What to Watch For – The Danger Signs
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Rapid breathing (tachypnea)
Difficulty breathing (dyspnea)
Fever – over 39.5 degrees (digital thermometer)
Nasal discharge that may be clear or may look like pus
Poor appetite
Weight loss
Elevated Heart Rate
Decreased exercise tolerance
Dullness to profound depression
Fetid nasal breath
Enlarged submandibular lymph nodes (they lie under your horse's jaw)
Cough, especially if productive – horses often look as though they are chewing or
swallowing after a productive cough
Recommendations to Help Prevent Pleuropneumonia (Travel Sickness)

Minimise lower respiratory tract contamination.
v.
Increased bacterial contamination and the accumulation of pus in the airways
usually occurs after 12 to 24 hours of transportation, but may be apparent
within 6 hours in some horses.
v.
It takes about 12 hours to clear the bacteria and secretions that accumulate
after elevation of the head for 24 hours. The treatment of horses with
antibiotics before or during transport has no influence on the accumulation
of secretions and bacteria.
v.
Prevent entry of bacteria into the lungs.
v.
Increased bacterial contamination of the lower respiratory tract is
unavoidable if horses are transported with their heads elevated for a
significant period (may be at least 6 hours). It is therefore important to
minimise the extension of this airway contamination to the lung tissue.
Transportation over long distances should be broken up into 12 hour stages
with 8 to 12 hour rest periods between stages. Horses should be fed from the
ground after travel to assist in the clearance of contaminated secretions from
the lower airways.
It is important to ensure that horses are in good health prior to long distance
road, or air, transport. Horses with mild or subclinical viral infections prior to
transportation are more likely to develop pleuropneumonia with transport.
The likelihood of such infections can be monitored by daily measurement of
rectal temperature in horses due to be transported by road over long
distances or by air.
vi.
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Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
v.
2015
More recent studies have indicated that the lung's defence mechanisms may
be compromised for at least 36 hours after long road or air transportation,
suggesting that horses may require a number of days to recover from the
stress associated with such travel.
Laminitis
What to look for;
Risk factors – overfed/obese horse (show horses)
Lameness
Stiffness
Shuffling stance
Can’t move
Lies Down in the Float
Strong Digital pulse (know how to assess it)
Off Food/Water – weight loss and dehydration
Take along your horse’s favourite food
Try putting apples in water bucket
Use Water additives (electrolytes/molasses) to aid in drinking
Consider Gastric Ulcer Medication (omeprazole – Gastrozol, get veterinary advice)
Suggested Travel Medical Kit
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Emergency treatments – wounds, lacerations
o Bandages, disinfectant, wound creams
Dehydration – electrolytes, appetite stimulant
Anti-inflammatories (bute, Finadyne – get veterinary advice before use, these are
swabbable)
Eye Treatments
o Creams, ointment
Drug Rule Book/Medication Log Book
Diagnostic tools
o Digital Thermometer
o Stethoscope
o Some Examples of Therapeutics
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Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng
2015
Tips to reduce Travelling Diseases
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Only transport healthy horses, watch for coughs
Travel at night/morning to reduce heat stress. Reduce cramping, excessive noise,
heat, high speed driving, try and get there promptly.
Provide dampened hay low down or green pick
Don’t tie head too short
Ensure adequate air flow, do not stay stationary for too long without off loading
On longer trips, try to stop every 8 – 10 hours and off load to enable horses to
“stretch their legs”
Cover with a light rug to avoid dust, keep float upper back doors closed
Put absorbent on the floor
Travel near the front on large transports
Post arrival vet examination/blood test
Arrive at least 3-5 days before competition begins to allow time for recovery
Pre-Travelling Treatment Suggestions
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General health check +/- blood test
Comprehensive Emergency First Aid Kit – talk to your vet
Electrolytes/Hydration (saline drench/IV fluids pre transport if weather is hot)
Supplement with oral Tonics – Vitamins
Reduce Grain/Nutrition in the diet immediately pre-transport
ANTIBIOTICS pre and during travel are recommended (get veterinary advice)
(e.g. Sulpha antibiotics, Ceftiofur)


Continual assessment, especially recital temperature
Veterinary Management Plan for all the “issues”
30