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 1 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 2 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 2015 Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng 2015 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. 5 Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng 2015 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. 6 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. 7 2015 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 8 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. 9 Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng 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 10 Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng 2015 (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: 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: 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. 11 Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng 2015 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. 12 Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng 2015 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. 13 Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng 2015 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. 14 Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng 2015 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 15 Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng 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. 16 Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng 2015 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 Venue Manager Publicity Manager 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 Tracing Officer Supply Officer Catering Officer Disinfection Officer Hygiene Officer 18 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 19 Supplier/s Gleam O’Dawn Samford Produce 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 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 Samford Valley Vets IGA IGA Samford Hardware Samford Hire Samford Hardware Samford Hire IGA Samford Valley Vets Dayboro Vets Old Mill Vets 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 21 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 22 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: 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: name address Phone numbers. Records of event attendance are to be kept for six months. 23 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 24 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). 25 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? 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 26 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. 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. 27 Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng 2015 What to Watch For – The Danger Signs 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. 28 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 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 29 Samford Equestrian Group Bio Security & Risk Mng 2015 Tips to reduce Travelling Diseases 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 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