As a full service primary care and referral hospital, we provide specialized surgical, medical, and A full service hospital and referral center for horses.
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We are committed to equine health through our highly trained staff and state of the art facility. We provide the finest surgical, medical, reproductive and intensive care services as well as individually tailored primary health care plans.
11/28/2025
If you weren't able to join the live EHV-1 Updates webinar last night, be sure to take advantage of our on-demand recording. Please remember that the situation is evolving rapidly and the best place to get up-to-date information is the Equine Disease Communication Center's website, or ask your local veterinarian!
Thank you to our speakers for joining us and providing all of this invaluable information.
11/23/2025
๐๐ด Our treatment board gets a lot of attentionโฆ even from the patients!
This board keeps track of every hospitalized horse, with each treatment and medication clearly circled so nothing gets missed.
Today, one of our patients decided to check on everyoneโs progress โ quality control at its finest. ๐
The current EHV-1 confirmed case count is 27, with 21 of those cases being the EHM (neurologic) form of the disease. The affected states are Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona and Washington state.
There has been a significant amount of speculation on how high the case load actually is. It is important to remember that while there is a delay in positive test reporting, all owners may not necessarily choose to have their animals tested. Additionally, it was speculated that some animals passed prior to testing being performed, falsely decreasing positive numbers. It is quite important to realize that there is no way to verify these speculations without data present, which was the instigator for this series to be written - weโd like to keep you all up to date on the facts that have been presented. These outbreak situations are stressful enough as it is without guesswork and the proverbial social media firestorm that is happening as a result. The fact of the matter is, we all only what want is best for our horses & to keep them safe.
That being said, Arizona and Nevada continue to be the only states with updated travel regulations.
- Previous 30-day health certificates will only be valid for 5 days if the origin state has had an EHV-1/EHM detection in the previous 30 days
- Supplemental statements are required on the health certificates (found here: https://agriculture.az.gov/sites/default/files/Letterhead%20Color-NEW%20LOGO-MOVEMENT%20RESTRICTIONS-SIGNED.pdf)
- Extended (6-month passports) health certificates are cancelled and availability will be paused for the next 30 days
- Additional rules due to early November vesicular stomatitis outbreak listed on site
- Implementation of an Entry Permit System - All health certificates (CVIs), test results and supporting documents must be faxed/emailed to the permit office for review, then details submitted to the online permit system to obtain an entry permit number
- Entry permits will be required until January 1, 2026
- Health certificates must have supplemental statements (Found here https://agri.nv.gov/Animals/Animal_Disease/Import_Requirements/)
- Animals will be denied entry if they have been on a premise or at an event with a confirmed case of EHV-1/EHM in the last 21 days ( Extraco Events Center, 377 Arena, Lazy E Arena, Jackson County)
- Additional rules due to early November vesicular stomatitis outbreak listed on site
The National Finals Rodeo & Junior National Finals Rodeo is planning on continuing as scheduled with additional rules & regulations in place with the safety of their equine athletes at the forefront.
Major events that are being postponed or rescheduled include the Kimes Ranch Million Dollar Breakaway and the 2025 National Finals Breakaway Roping. A significant number of large barrel races, professional rodeos, horse sales and other western performance events have also been cancelled in multiple states in an effort to reduce spread during this time.
- Dr. Cooper
Update:
MT Dept of Ag has released the following regulations:
โ- All equines entering Montana must be traveling on a certificate of veterinary inspection (CVI) issued no earlier than 72 hours prior to travel into Montana. This 72-hour restriction also applies to equines who are issued a CVI in Montana to travel out-of-state and are returning to Montana on the same CVI.
- Equines that may have been exposed to EHV-1 within 14 days prior to CVI inspection are not eligible for importation into Montana until this order is lifted.
- Equines exhibiting any clinical signs consistent with EHV-1 or EHM, including a fever, are not eligible for importation into Montana until this Order is lifted.
- All other importation requirements for equines eligible for entry into Montana pursuant to this Order remain in place
Arizona equine travel regulationscan be found here:https://agriculture.az.gov/sites/default/files/Letterhead%20Color-NEW%20LOGO-MOVEMENT%20RESTRICTIONS-SIGNED.pdf
๐ข Waller Equine Hospital โ Important EHV-1 Outbreak Update
First and foremost: Waller Equine Hospital has had no positive EHV-1 cases and no known exposures to date.
We are taking every possible precaution to keep it that way.
As we monitor the current EHV-1 outbreak, we have implemented the following temporary protocols to protect our patients, clients, and staff:
๐น Appointments & Emergency Care
โข We are accepting routine appointments and emergency cases.
โข All horsesโroutine and emergencyโmust receive a full history screening over the phone prior to arrival.
โข Upon arriving at the hospital, all horses must remain on the trailer until we complete a physical exam and confirm no known or suspected exposure.
โข If any exposure risk is identified, the horse will be referred to an alternative facility.
๐น Arrival Protocols
โข Owners and staff must spray boots and shoes with Rescueโข disinfectant before entering the hospital.
๐น Biosecurity Measures
โข All equipment is thoroughly cleaned and decontaminated between each horse.
โข Only horses with no known or suspected exposure are permitted onto the property.
๐น It is important to not spread misinformation during an outbreak. Stick to science and facts in an effort to not cause more fear and panic.
These measures allow us to provide essential care while prioritizing the highest level of biosecurity during this outbreak. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we work to keep our equine community safe.
If you have questions or need to schedule an appointment, please call us.
โ Waller Equine Hospital ๐ด๐
11/22/2025
Information about health certificates
11/22/2025
Great info
As we continue to monitor the current outbreak of the neurologic form of equine herpesvirus (EHM) infection, let's take this opportunity to discuss once more the importance of biosecurity measures to stop disease spread. We recommend the following biosecurity precautions for horse owners, particularly if their horses have recently traveled to horse shows or were exposed to horses that have traveled:
1) Monitor horses for clinical signs (including fever, discharge from the nostrils, toe-dragging or a lack of balance) and take the temperature twice daily. Temperature greater than 101.5 F is considered a fever.
2) Immediately isolate any horse(s) showing clinical signs. Equine herpesvirus is an aerosolized virus and is spread through shared airspace, direct contact, and contaminated caretakers or equipment. A good isolation area is a separate barn or shelter that does not share airspace with healthy horses.
3) Implement movement restrictions until the situation is evaluated.
4) Contact your veterinarian to evaluate your horse and to propose a comprehensive biosecurity protocol.
5) Increase biosecurity measures that include extensive cleaning and disinfection of surfaces and equipment that come in contact with affected horses: wash or sanitize your hands between interacting with horses; take time while filling water buckets and feed tubs, do not cross contaminate; minimize the use of shared equipment and tack.
6) Make sure your horse is up to date on vaccinations.
7) Establish communication with all parties involved (owners, boarders, trainers, etc.).
More resources and information regarding biosecurity are available on the Equine Disease Communication Center's website at https://equinediseasecc.org/biosecurity
Mark your calendars now and please tune into this meeting!
In light of the current EHV-1 outbreak, the AAEP and the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) have organized a horse owner education webinar to bring you the most up to date information on this issue.
Next Tuesday, join specialists Lewis R. โBudโ Dinges (Texas Animal Health Commission Executive Director and Texas State Veterinarian), Dr. Krista Estell (AAEP/EDCC) and Dr. Katie Flynn (USEF) for an informative discussion about what EHV-1 is, how to recognize it, and most importantly, how to prevent its spread.
*PLEASE NOTE: the attendee limit for this session is capped at 1,000. However, all who register will be emailed a link to an on-demand recording that will become available 24 hours after the live session ends.
11/22/2025
One insurance companies clarifications on coverage during this EHV-1 outbreak
Due to the recent EHV outbreak, there has been a lot of confusion and mis information
posted in all areas of the horse world.
The Plains Horizon team has been working closely with multiple underwriters and veterinarians regarding this evolving situation.
To clarify any existing All Risk Mortality Policy is fine and any loss due to a EHV variant would be covered, as it is a virus. As long as pertinent state animal health guidelines are followed
Now, we have multiple markets with varying guidelines for any new business or additions. These guidelines vary by market from no exclusion with appropriate paperwork, some will apply 30 day to open ended exclusion in relationship to the EHV variant depending on several factors, such as location and exposure risk.
As mentioned above these parameters vary by market and state, please call with any questions as the above is a generalized overview, so we can discuss your individual situation as our guidelines are changing daily.
Regards,
Marvin
11/19/2025
๐จ EHV-1 Precautions for Farriers Traveling Barn to Barn ๐จ
With the recent EHV-1 outbreak in North Texas, this is a good time for farriers to tighten up simple biosecurity steps to protect the horsesโand barnsโwe all work so hard to keep healthy.
๐ What to Know About EHV-1
EHV-1 (Equine Herpesvirus-1) spreads primarily through nasal secretions, coughing, snorting, shared water, and contaminated surfaces or clothing.
The incubation period is typically 2โ10 days, meaning a horse can appear normal while still shedding the virus.
Most common signs include fever, nasal discharge, lethargy, and in some cases neurologic signs.
The virus can survive on surfaces (including tools, clothing, and equipment) long enough to travel barn-to-barn if precautions arenโt taken.
๐ Helpful Steps for Farriers These are easy, practical ways to reduce risk:
Disinfect Tools Between Barns
Isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher) works great for wiping down nippers, rasps, knives, and other tools.
Change Shirts/Hats Between Barns
EHV-1 is mostly shed in nasal secretions, but clothing can still act as a mechanical carrier. A simple shirt change reduces that risk significantly.
Talk With Clients About Exposure
A quick conversation goes a long way. If a barn is having active cases or known exposure, it may be safer to reschedule the appointment until things stabilize.
Avoid Shared Equipment
Donโt set your tools, bags, or shoeing box where horses may have slobbered or snorted.
Wash Hands or Use Hand Sanitizer
Especially after handling any horseโs face, halter, or nasal area.
๐ Why This Matters Farriers travel more barns in a day than almost anyone in the industryโand that makes them vital partners in stopping virus spread.
By making a few simple adjustments, the risk of transmitting EHV-1 between barns becomes extremely low.
Together, we can help keep horses safe and prevent further spread across North Texas.
Stay safe, stay sharp, and thank you to all the farriers doing their part. ๐จ๐ด๐
11/19/2025
๐จ URGENT NOTICE FOR HORSE OWNERS ๐จ
At Waller Equine Hospital, we want to alert you to the confirmed outbreak of Equine Herpesvirus Type 1 (EHV-1) in Texas. With multiple cases linked to recent horse events, we are asking all clients to stay informed and take proactive precautions to protect their horses and barns.
Links for info:https://aaep.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/EHV_FAQ_for_Owners_Final.pdf
EHV-1 is a highly contagious virus that can cause:
โข Respiratory illness
โข Abortion in pregnant mares
โข Neurologic disease (Equine Herpes Myeloencephalopathy, EHM)
Neurologic cases may show hind-end weakness, incoordination, urine dribbling, and in severe cases, the inability to stand.
โธป
โ Steps Every Horse Owner Should Take Immediately
1. Monitor temperatures twice daily.
Fever (101.5ยฐF / 38.6ยฐC or higher) is often the earliest sign.
2. Isolate any horse showing fever, nasal discharge, cough, or neurologic symptoms.
Call Waller Equine Hospital right away if you notice any concerning signs.
3. Separate recently traveled or competed horses for at least 14 daysโlonger (21โ28 days) if they were exposed.
4. Strengthen barn biosecurity:
โข No nose-to-nose contact
โข Disinfect equipment: buckets, trailers, tack, grooming tools
โข Wash hands between horses and use dedicated clothing/boots around newly arrived or sick horses
5. Limit unnecessary movement of horses during this outbreak.
6. Vaccinate as recommended by your veterinarian.
While vaccines donโt prevent the neurologic form, they do help reduce viral shedding and respiratory disease.
โธป
๐ Watch for These Signs
โข Fever
โข Nasal discharge or cough
โข Depression, loss of appetite
โข Hind-end weakness or incoordination
โข Drooping tail, urine dribbling
โข Pregnant mares aborting
โธป
๐ Important for Upcoming Appointments at Waller Equine Hospital
If your horse has:
โข Attended events,
โข Traveled recently, or
โข Been exposed to a horse with fever, respiratory signs, or confirmed EHV-1,
๐ PLEASE contact us before your appointment.
This allows us to implement proper biosecurity measures and helps protect all horses on our property.
โธป
Your vigilance makes a difference. We are here to help guide you through monitoring, isolation, testing, and treatment if needed.
Stay alert. Stay safe.
โ The Team at Waller Equine Hospital ๐ด๐
The homepage of the Texas Animal Health Commission.
11/17/2025
We love these informational posts!
11/12/2025
๐ The More You Know: Tetanus in Horses ๐
This is why yearly vaccinations are so important for your horses! ๐ด๐
An owner brought in his mare after noticing something just slightly off โ and it turned out to be tetanus. Unfortunately, her annual vaccinations had been missed due to lifeโs busy moments. Thankfully, because it was caught early, she was able to recover โ though it was a slow and uncomfortable process.
๐ Horses need a yearly vaccine that protects against: Encephalitis (Eastern & Western), Tetanus, West Nile Virus, and Rabies
We use a convenient all-in-one vaccine, making it easy and affordable to keep your horses protected. The cost of prevention is far less than the cost of treatment โ or the heartbreak of losing your horse to something preventable. ๐
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As a full service primary care and referral hospital, we provide specialized surgical, medical, and reproductive services. Our staff of board certified specialists are always happy to discuss cases with referring veterinarians.
Communication is one of our highest priorities!
Waller Equine Hospital was established in 2001 as a referral hospital for the surgical and medical treatment of horses. We have since grown into a full service primary care and referral hospital. We offer a wide variety of services in surgery, medicine, reproduction, emergency, preventative care, and general health.
Waller Equine Hospital sits on 9 acres of beautiful pasture land on 2920 Road northwest of Houston in Waller, TX. Our main building consists of a reception area, administrative office, veterinary offices, an employee and client lounge /conference area, pharmacy, digital radiography viewing, laboratory, and a large surgical suite with two recovery/induction stalls.
Our treatment area is staffed with highly trained registered technicians, assistants and barn personnel responsible for patient care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It was designed to be highly efficient and close to our intensive care patients. The patient facility consists of an indoor and outdoor exam area, 5 intensive care stalls, 15 hospital stalls, an isolation unit, 12 large paddocks, 2 pastures, and a round pen. The hospital is maintained with a strict disinfectant and bio-security protocol.
Owners are welcome to visit their horses at anytime but should check in at the admissions office so they can be escorted to the stall. Owners are updated frequently regarding the status of hospitalized patients and a case summary is issued at the time of discharge that details the case management and discharge recommendations.
