Instructions
Check for the onset of what appears to be a cold in your horse, usually, but not always accompanied by fever. Examine the horse for light to heavy nasal discharge that may range in color from pale green to dark green.
Listen closely for nasal congestion in the form of wheezing and snuffling or heavy, labored breathing. Check the eyes for mucous- and serum-like discharges common for colds.
Determine if the horse has a cough and whether it is dry or wet, and report this to the veterinarian. These symptoms are often accompanied by the horse not eating much, or refusing to eat at all.
Palpate the submaxillary lymph nodes for any signs of swelling. Run your hands over the legs to check for swelling, also called oedema.
Walk the corral or pasture to ascertain if your horse has diarrhea. Your horse may also be constipated, so monitor him closely and report this to the vet.
How to Identify Equine Viral Rhinopneumonitis
This disease is contracted by inhaling infected airborne droplets, eating material contaminated by nasal discharges or an aborted fetus. This worldwide contagious viral disease is also known as equine rhinopneumonitis, equine herpesvirus 1 infection, EVR or EHV, and it usually strikes the respiratory system. Supportive therapy is required for horses with EHV. Neurological complications may occur after rhinopneumonitis involving the hind quarters and can lead to paralysis of the limbs, bladder and rectum.