Over the past few days Coren and Annie have been writing about the growing Equine Herpesvirus outbreak out in Utah, Colorado, and surrounding states. Today, the Spring Gulch Horse Trials, which was to be held this weekend in Littleton, Colorado, has been canceled due to concerns about the outbreak.
I spoke with Heather Peterson, the event’s secretary, who explained to me that the number of cases in Colorado is still growing and after lengthy consultations with vets the decision was made to cancel the event. As Heather said, it is better to be safe than sorry. The vets had said that 24 hour health certificates as well as mandatory on site temps be taken and even then there would be a risk of infection.
Heather said that the event had about 100 entries, 25% of whom had already scratched due to concerns about the outbreak.
EHV-1 is a contagious and potentially fatal disease that can cause neurological and respiratory problems and abortion in horses. The current outbreak is believed to have started at the National Cutting Horse Association’s Western National Championships in Ogden, Utah and has spread to multiple states, including Colorado.
The event will not be able to issue refunds due to this cancellation because they still need to pay judges, the TD, and the course builder. If there is any money left after paying expenses, they will issue refunds. Heather said that after sending out the cancellation notice this morning, she received many supportive emails back about the decision. Competitors will be notified if there is any possibility of rescheduling.
The cancellation is a shame for everyone involved, but it clearly makes sense to avoid any unnecessary risk to horses.
