Did you know that more than 25% of horse owners don’t fully understand how Equine Herpes Virus (EHV) is spread or the risk it poses to their horses¹? That’s worrying, because EHV is a highly contagious airborne virus that can have serious — and sometimes fatal — consequences.
This is why the Zoetis stand at the Equine Show is all about helping horse owners learn the facts, understand the risks, and take simple steps to protect their horses.
Why EHV Matters
Every horse and pony can be affected by EHV. While it’s often linked to respiratory illness and reduced performance, in more severe cases the disease can become life-threatening².
EHV spreads more easily than many owners realise. It can be passed on through:
· Airborne droplets
· Shared equipment
· Handlers and clothing
· Contaminated bedding
If your horse travels, mixes with others, or attends events, they could be at risk.
Often there may be no obvious signs of Equine Herpes Virus; the only complaint may be that the horse is not quite itself and not performing as expected.3
What Horse Owners Told Us
A survey of 2,256 UK horse owners revealed some eye-opening insights:
· Over 25% didn’t fully understand how EHV is transmitted or the risks involved
· Up to 1 in 4 were unaware that EHV can spread through air, equipment, or people
· 98% recognised that equine gatherings increase disease risk
· 75% regularly travel away from their home yard with their horses
These results show that while owners recognise risk, many are missing key information about how easily EHV can spread.
Vaccination: An Important Conversation
Most owners are already doing the right thing when it comes to flu and tetanus, with 95% vaccinating for these diseases. However, only 17% currently vaccinate for EHV — even though 86% believe vaccination helps reduce the spread.
The good news? Once owners understand the impact EHV can have:
· 78% say they would consider vaccinating
· 93% say they would vaccinate if their vet recommended it
The Importance of Education and Veterinary Guidance
The survey findings demonstrate that improved education and clear veterinary advice can play a vital role in protecting horses from EHV. By increasing awareness of how the virus spreads and the benefits of vaccination, horse owners can make informed decisions to safeguard their horses’ health and reduce the risk of outbreaks within the wider equine community.
EHV can periodically recur
One of the main problems with EHV is that once your horse has had the virus it usually doesn’t go away. Just like the human cold sore virus, EHV lies dormant in the majority of horses after they recover from infection, and it can periodically recur.
Is your horse high risk?
EHV can infect any horse, but the higher risk groups are:4
● Breeding studs and yards with pregnant mares
● Horses less than five years old
● Facilities with frequent equine movement including livery yards
● Venues where equestrian competitions and shows are held
Horse owners: Take Action Now!
Visit the Zoetis stand at the Equine Show to learn more about EHV
· Play EHV Pairs!
Zoetis is inviting Equine Show visitors to visit stand E91 to have some fun with their friends and test their knowledge by playing an interactive EHV Pairs Game: simply tap the cards to reveal the risk factor and then find their pair. A leader board will be running on each day of the Show and three equine first aid kits are up for grabs for the fastest competitors.
· Name the Crafty pony
The irresistible Zoetis Crafty Pony will also be on the stand. He’s only just joined the team, with the important role of mascot and he needs a name. Zoetis will be asking for suggestions. Those who meet him can proudly follow his progress around the country, helping to spread awareness of how to protect horses from EHV.
Talk to your vet about EHV vaccination and whether it’s right for your horse Stay informed and take action to help reduce the risk of EHV spreading.
References
1. Zoetis EHV Horse Owner Survey Results, 2025 (v1.0)
2. Allen, GP., Equine Respiratory Diseases, 2002. (v1.0)
3. Slater, J., Equine Infectious Diseases, 2014,151-168. (v1.0)
4. AAEP: Vaccination Guidelines (v1.0)
About Zoetis
As the world’s leading animal health company, Zoetis is driven by a singular purpose: to nurture our world and humankind by advancing care for animals. After innovating ways to predict, prevent, detect, and treat animal illness for more than 70 years, Zoetis continues to stand by those raising and caring for animals worldwide – from veterinarians and pet owners to livestock producers. The company’s leading portfolio and pipeline of medicines, vaccines, diagnostics and technologies make a difference in over 100 countries. A Fortune 500 company, Zoetis generated revenue of $9.3 billion in 2024 with approximately 13,800 employees. For more information, visit www.zoetis.com.