General News
31 July, 2023
Agriculture Victoria continues horse deaths investigation
Agriculture Victoria’s investigation into multiple horse deaths — now totalling close to 20 — continues, however the authority is reassuring owners there is no need for any restrictions on horse movements, and horse events and gatherings can...
Agriculture Victoria’s investigation into multiple horse deaths — now totalling close to 20 — continues, however the authority is reassuring owners there is no need for any restrictions on horse movements, and horse events and gatherings can go ahead as planned.
As of last week, 17 horses had died across six properties, including at Ballarat and Colac.
According to Agriculture Victoria to date, only normal causes of death have been found where adequate investigations and samples were possible.
Examples include bacterial infection, and gut rupture. Toxic plants such as Marsh mallow (Malva parviflora) are also being investigated as a cause.
“The investigation remains on-going until all samples submitted to laboratories have been tested and final results are available,” a statement from Agriculture Victoria read.
“Agriculture Victoria will continue to attend properties, work with owners, and investigate all reports of multiple sudden horse deaths made to its hotline.”
Following the discovery of sudden multiple deaths, Agriculture Victoria also said some single deaths had been reported.
“Following the announcement of an unusual level of sudden multiple deaths in horses, Agriculture Victoria has since received reports of a number of single deaths,” a statement read.
“Only normal causes of death have been able to be identified in these and none appear to be infectious. The investigation continues into what could have been the possible causes of the multiple sudden horse deaths.
“All affected horses have been reported to have died relatively quickly, within hours to one day from the first sign of illness.
“That is the only common factor to date.
“It’s essential to remember that sudden death of individual horses is not uncommon, and there may not be a definitive answer or common link found. Multiple horse deaths within a short time frame though is unusual and veterinary advisers should be contacted as soon as possible.”
Agriculture Victoria also asked members of the public to be mindful of what they share online, as posting misinformation can cause unnecessary alarm to horse owners.
To report a sudden horse death call the Emergency Animal Disease Watch Hotline on 1800 675 888 or visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/bio security/animal-diseases/report-an-unusual-or-emergency-animal-disease