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Equine virus may derail shows

By ASSOCIATED PRESS
Published December 27, 2006

MIAMI - For about two decades, only occasional mechanical problems could delay polo player Owen Rinehart's trip to South Florida for the winter season.

This year, however, his plans to log early training time were derailed by an equine virus outbreak that has killed five horses and left others under quarantine in Florida.

"Everyone is very professional in my business and takes everything very seriously and takes very good care of their horses," Rinehart said. "So everything that they can do to possibly prevent any more spread or outbreak, everyone is doing."

Ten barns in Florida, including eight in Palm Beach County, remain quarantined and officials have treated 10 horses for the virus, state Agriculture Department spokesman Mark Fagan said. State and federal officials have not barred horse shipments to or from Florida, but have advised owners that some events and barns have imposed restrictions.

The outbreak is being watched by horse enthusiasts across the nation and might threaten South Florida's annual winter equestrian shows, which are a boon to local economies.

The biggest concern is for the Palm Beach County town of Wellington. It hosts polo events and the annual Winter Equestrian Festival, which draws thousands for show jumping and other competitions. It is scheduled to start in late January.

"We will proceed with caution, certainly," festival spokesman Mason Phelps said. "But we're certainly making plans for business as usual."

Since announcing the outbreak in mid December, state officials continue to inform veterinarians, trainers and owners of its danger. Officials believe the virus spread through a group of horses that was transported to Florida from New York in November. A horse that had arrived from Europe spread the virus and is now recovering. However, the horse infected others before officials could diagnose the virus.

[Last modified December 27, 2006, 00:22:33]