A Comprehensive Guide for Equine Owners and Transporters Helping Horse Owners and Transporters Understand Canada’s Regulations for Compromised and Unfit Animals Transporting horses isn’t just about getting from point A to point B — it’s a critical phase in a horse’s life that, if handled improperly, can lead to stress, injury, or even death. The risks increase significantly when decisions must be made about transporting equines that are, or become, compromised or unfit during the journey. To promote humane handling in such situations, the Horse Welfare Alliance of Canada (HWAC) has released a guide to help interpret the Transport Regulations for Compromised or Unfit Animals. These regulations apply to all horses that are transported regardless of if it is for a recreational, competitive commercial or personal pursuit. The guide outlines the responsibilities of all parties involved in transport — including owners, caregivers, enforcement personnel, veterinarians, hired transporters, and others — when dealing with compromised or unfit animals.   The document also addresses animal welfare considerations during disasters or emergencies. Under federal transport regulations, injured, ill, or otherwise impaired animals are classified as either compromised or unfit for transport. This detailed guide breaks down Canada’s federal Health of Animals Regulations (Part

Identify measures you can take to mitigate risk and ways to ensure you are prepared for a quick and effective response should a disaster or emergency strike. High risk during spring Flood or flash flood Grass fires Spring snowstorm Building or structure collapse Plow wind, hurricane, tornado Thunderstorm – lightning strikes Thin ice on dugout, slough or other water Other risks Disease outbreak Drought Hazardous material spill or release Explosion Building fire Transportation incident Building or structure collapse Power outage Water contamination Uncared for or neglected domestic animals Loose livestock Ill or hungry wildlife Response Preparation Have fire extinguishers available and up to date in all barns and buildings. Clear water should be accessible at all barns to allow for fighting fires. Current animal inventory numbers. Ensure animals have access to higher and/or open ground in case of high water or fire. Test emergency generator if you have one. Inspect and make any repairs to fences, gates and livestock trailers that may be needed. Have temporary fencing or penning available and supplies to fix fence. Risk Mitigation Checklist Keep grass mowed around all buildings. Inspect any fences for winter damage before putting animals out on pasture. Make sure all gates

Information sheets on ticks and horses in the Canadian context: Preventing and responding to ticks and tick bites on your horse Types of ticks and tick-borne diseases relevant to horses in Canada A visual guide of ticks native and non-native to Canada Ticks and Your Horse: Types of Ticks and Tick-Borne Diseases Preventing and Responding to Ticks and Tick Bites on Your Horse Ticks and Horses – Tick Guide Developed by Canadian Animal Health Surveillance System

The CAHSS Equine Network brings together stakeholders from across disciplines and across the country to advance disease surveillance for Canada’s equine population. An effective equine surveillance system is essential to protect the health and well-being of horses and humans, safeguard the viability of the Canadian herd, ensure movement of horses and continuance of trade, and enhance the prosperity of the Canadian equine industry. HWAC board members are part the Equine Network. Follow this link to the CAHSS equine network page where you will find the following information and more. Common problems in horses … do you need antibiotics? Infographic that discusses the importance about being wise with antibiotic use in horses to prevent antibiotic resistance. Common problems include runny noses and coughs, and most common problems do not need antibiotics. Snotty noses in horses… do you need antibiotics? Infographic that discusses the importance about being wise with antibiotic use in horses to prevent antibiotic resistance. Nasal discharge and coughing (aka “the snots”) are commonly seen in horses. Antibiotics do not speed recovery in most cases, and should never be used unless your veterinarian examines the horse and prescribes them. Minor wounds in horses… do you need antibiotics Infographic that discusses