Strangles Awareness Week 2021

The Horse Trust is proud to be joining forces with some of the UK’s largest equine welfare organisations, in supporting Strangles Awareness Week 2021. Taking place on 3-9 May, this national week of action aims to promote better biosecurity and widespread awareness of Strangles.

Strangles is one of the most common equine diseases in horses in the UK. It is a highly contagious infection of the upper respiratory tract caused by bacteria Strep.equi and affects horses, ponies and donkeys of all ages, breed and sex. The disease can cause misery for a horse, with possible symptoms ranging from laboured breathing, difficulty eating and depression, to a high fever, thick nasal discharge and painful abscesses. In severe cases it can pose a risk to the horse’s life.

The aim of Strangles Awareness Week is to help horse owners, livery yard managers, vets and professionals share their experiences of Strangles and to tackle the stigma around the disease that can prevent those affected from speaking up.

We’re asking you to join us, and other equine welfare organisations, on 3-9 May 2021 to “turn social media yellow” as we continue to combat the stigma and improve horse health around the country.

Please look out for our social media posts and messaging and show your support in sharing and joining in the conversation. You can follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter here. By working together we can #StampOutStrangles.