General News
7 August, 2023
Victorian horse deaths not linked, Agriculture Victoria investigation concludes
An investigation into the recent spate of sudden multiple horse deaths, including at Ballarat and Colac, has not found anything unusual or unexpected contributed to the deaths, Agriculture Victoria has announced. The organisation’s investigation...
An investigation into the recent spate of sudden multiple horse deaths, including at Ballarat and Colac, has not found anything unusual or unexpected contributed to the deaths, Agriculture Victoria has announced.
The organisation’s investigation has concluded and found there were no links in the deaths or properties, or any indication of infectious disease.
The investigation involved a total of 17 horses that died on six separate properties.
According to Agriculture Victoria, sample testing and necropsies were conducted where possible on deceased animals and found nothing unusual or unexpected as contributing causes.
“A number of separate diagnoses have been made including intestinal issues in one instance, while there is a possibility of toxic plants present in another,” a statement read.
“Negative tests were returned for a wide variety of transmissible diseases such as Hendra virus and equine influenza.
“We would like to thank the horse industry, private veterinarians, other experts and horse owners for their assistance during this investigation.”
As there are no further concerns about the investigation’s findings, regular arrangements for reporting illness or deaths in horses will be reinstated.