Keep Strangles at Bay

This time last month was Strangles week. Perhaps, with our ultra busy 24/7 lives, its something that has already fallen off your radar, but Strangles is highly infectious, and following some simple hygiene practices can stop it spreading.

Strangles is a really unpleasant disease, which can have a long recovery time, and it’s something we work hard to avoid here at the Sanctuary. Good management practices and hygiene are at the heart of keeping the disease at bay in your yard.

Should you suspect an animal has Strangles, they should be isolated immediately. This is an airborne disease so they must have a separate air space to prevent transmission should they cough or snort.

If your horse is liveried, you must also notify the yard manager and other horse owners, as animals who have had contact with an infected horse must also be isolated – even if they are not showing any symptoms.

Other safety rules to follow include keeping one set of equipment such as mucking out tools, grooming kit and feeding items etc for the isolated horse only. Keep other animals such as dogs away too, to avoid spreading infection, and dispose of waste such as bedding, feed and water in a separate area.

Humans caring for the animal should wear sturdy disposable gloves and change clothes after contact – overalls are useful here. Wash clothing and any other material items at 60 degrees to kill bacteria.

For more details about the disease itself, symptoms and treatment head to www.horseandrideruk.com/expert-advice/articles/put-stop-strangles.

Upcoming Events

• Harmony Brass Band: Harmony Brass will be celebrating the ensemble’s 40th Anniversary on Saturday 8 June by presenting a special fundraising concert in aid of Remus. The evening will include the usual eclectic and popular mix of music for all tastes and feature a selection of audience favourites enjoyed by the group’s supporters over the past 40 years. The concert will take place at Stock Village Hall from 7.30pm. If you would like to buy tickets please call 01277 622456. Tickets are £20 and you can bring your own drinks and nibbles.
• Afternoon Tea at the Sanctuary: Monday 10 June 2pm. Included in your afternoon is a tour of the Sanctuary and an opportunity to meet some of the 200+ animals living at Remus in the beautiful Essex countryside. To book, please contact the Sanctuary on tel: 01277 356191. Tickets are £25 for a traditional Afternoon Tea and include a glass of Prosecco. Further dates 15 July and 29 July.
• Open Day and Dog Show: Join us for our Open Day and Fun Dog Show on Sunday 7 July from 1 until 4pm. If you wish to take part in the Fun Dog Show, this starts at 1.30pm with bookings taken from 1pm. Class entry is £2 each and class information can be found on our website. Tickets for Adults £7 and for Children £5. Please book online via the Sanctuary website. Cream Teas are also available if booked in advance.