Coggins Test Required for Horses in Competitions

Newsdate: Fri, 18 Feb 2011 - 08:00 am
Location: RICHMOND, Virginia

Horse owners particpating in shows, fairs, races or other gatherings in Virginia will soon have to carry papers showing that their animals aren't infected with equine infectious anemia.

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services said Tuesday that the updated regulation takes effect March 2 and applies to any activity where horses with different owners could come into contact with each other.

Owners who don't have valid test reports showing their horses tested negatively for the disease can be charged with a misdemeanor.

Virginia state veterinarian Richard Wilkes says a horse that has equine infectious anemia is infected for life and becomes a carrier for the disease.

About the Author

Flossie Sellers

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As an animal lover since childhood, Flossie was delighted when Mark, the CEO and developer of EquiMed asked her to join his team of contributors.

She enrolled in My Horse University at Michigan State and completed a number of courses in everything related to horse health, nutrition, diseases and conditions, medications, hoof and dental care, barn safety, and first aid.

Staying up-to-date on the latest developments in horse care and equine health is now a habit, and she enjoys sharing a wealth of information with horse owners everywhere.

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