Equine flu case contained at our Newton Abbot Sanctuary site: 12/06/2026 

Because the horse was already in our dedicated quarantine facilities, we could act quickly and keep our resident herd safe. The virus has been contained within the quarantine area and none of our resident horses or ponies are showing any clinical signs of disease.  

The horse is doing well, and we are keeping a close, regular eye on them, together with our on-site veterinary partners, Tor Equine.  

Strong biosecurity and vaccination in action 

Keeping horses safe from infectious disease is close to our hearts and central to how we work. 11 years ago we faced a serious outbreak of strangles, which shaped much of our expertise and led to the completion of our purpose-built quarantine unit at Beech Trees. 

When a new horse or pony comes to Beech Trees, they always spend time in separate facilities away from the main herds. This quarantine period, along with strict hygiene routines for our staff, helps stop new diseases reaching our resident horses and ponies.  

We also vaccinate every horse and pony at the earliest safe opportunity. This combined approach of quarantine, good biosecurity and vaccination has allowed us to contain this case.  

We have worked closely with Tor Equine throughout. Our strong partnership means we have rapid access to expert veterinary care on site at Beech Trees whenever we need it.  

Tor Equine vet Richard Frost BSc(Hons) BVetMed MRCVS said: ‘Equine flu is a very contagious disease and this case highlights perfectly how vaccination and good biosecurity, as well as a suitable isolation period for new arrivals on a yard, can dramatically reduce the spread of the disease’.  

What is equine flu? 

Equine flu is a contagious respiratory disease that affects horses and ponies. It spreads through droplets from coughing and can travel through the air or on clothing and equipment.  It’s not rare, but good vaccination rates and sensible yard management help reduce how far and how fast it spreads. Signs can include a high temperature, coughing, nasal discharge, tiredness and loss of appetite. Some horses show only mild signs; others can become quite unwell.  

The incubation period, which is the time between a horse being exposed to the virus and starting to show signs, is usually one to five days. Horses can shed the virus and infect others during this time, which is why quarantine for new arrivals is so important.  

Most horses recover with rest and good care, but equine flu can cause complications, especially in youngsters, older horses or those with other health problems. Vaccination does not always stop infection completely, but it usually reduces how severe and how long the illness is and cuts the risk of the virus passing on.  

Reassurance for the local community 

We are sharing this update as responsible horse carers, to inform the local community in and around Newton Abbot and to highlight how quarantine and vaccination help avoid and manage cases like this.  

We are working with Tor Equine to monitor the affected horse, protect our resident herd and manage our return to all-clear status at Beech Trees. Day-to-day work at the site continues with biosecurity measures in place.  

Advice for horse and pony owners or carers 

We, along with Tor Equine, encourage all horse and pony owners to stay alert to any changes in their animals’ health and behaviour. If a horse or pony seems unwell, even in a small way, please contact your vet for advice. Prompt action can make a real difference and can protect other horses on a yard.  

We are keen to support good welfare practice in the local community. Our team is happy to offer advice if anyone has concerns about a horse or pony, including equines they see locally that appear to be suffering or in poor condition.  

If you have concerns about equine welfare, you can contact us for guidance and signposting to the most appropriate help. 

Our Welfare and Rehoming team is available on 01626 355969. All calls are treated in confidence. The helpline is staffed by our specialist equine team from Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm. Calls are charged at normal rates, but the advice is completely free of charge.