Biosecurity perceptions among Ontario horse owners during the COVID-19 pandemic.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Disease outbreaks present a significant challenge to horse health and welfare and the economic stability of horse industries internationally. This is a particular concern in Ontario, Canada, where there have been frequent outbreaks of respiratory infectious diseases among horses. Despite these risks, there has been limited research on whether Ontario horse owners engage in biosecurity measures sufficient to mitigate risk of equine diseases, and whether current events such as the COVID-19 pandemic influence attitudes towards equine biosecurity practices.

Objective

To explore Ontario horse owners' perceptions, attitudes and experiences relating to on-farm biosecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Study design

Qualitative study using virtual semi-structured in

SUBMITTER: Germann JA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11807931 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature