Due to the ongoing Equine Herpesvirus (EHV-1) outbreak in the region, the State of Maryland has implemented new restrictions, including the requirement for intrastate Certificates of Veterinary Inspection (CVIs) for all equine events. These measures have resulted in the modification or postponement of many scheduled activities.
EHV-1 can be shed for extended periods—even by horses that appear clinically healthy—significantly increasing the risk of continued transmission during an outbreak.
As a precautionary measure, TROT is temporarily suspending all activities that involve horses.
Recent Event Cancellations
The following events, among others, have canceled equine components or paused activities in response to state guidance:
- Mayor’s Parade
- Lisbon Parade
- Poker Ride at Baltimore County Ag Center
We encourage all members to verify the latest status directly with event organizers, as changes may occur rapidly.
Barn and Care Considerations
Many barns have implemented additional biosecurity protocols, including limiting horse movement on and off the property and adjusting procedures for visiting professionals such as veterinarians and farriers.
- Please do not delay necessary veterinary or farrier care—your horse’s essential needs remain a priority.
- Some facilities that share staff across multiple barns may be temporarily limiting employee movement to reduce risk. When possible, please offer assistance to help ease operational pressures during this time. We appreciate everyone’s cooperation and community spirit.
About EHV-1 and Recommended Biosecurity Practices
EHV-1 spreads primarily through:
- Direct horse-to-horse contact with nasal secretions
- Aerosolized droplets
- Contact with contaminated surfaces (stalls, buckets, tack, trailers, etc.)
- Indirect transmission by people via hands, clothing, and equipment
Horses may act as carriers without showing clinical symptoms. All owners should monitor their horses carefully and follow strict biosecurity protocols.
Key biosecurity recommendations include:
- Thorough cleaning and disinfection of all surfaces and equipment in contact with affected horses
- Ensuring individuals handling multiple horses use proper hygiene and disinfection methods between each animal
- Isolating horses that may have been exposed and following veterinary guidance closely
Resources and Contacts
- Maryland State Veterinarian
If your horse has recently traveled to Texas, Oklahoma, or other locations where exposure may have occurred, please contact the State Vet’s office: 410-841-5810. Guidance on isolation and monitoring will be provided. - Event Organizers
For questions related to upcoming events in the next 28 days, contact: animalhealth.mda@maryland.gov - Maryland CVI Requirements and Updates
Visit the MDA Animal Health webpage for the latest policies and documentation requirements. - Additional Biosecurity Resources
TROT extends sincere thanks to the Maryland Department of Agriculture Horse Industry Board for providing many of the resources included above.
We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we navigate this situation together and prioritize the health and safety of our horses and community.