Equine

With a well earned historical place in America’s history of agriculture, the role of equine operations in the Orange County has taken on a new look. While the equine population is diversified, and the deep rooted Standardbred industry driving on, the pleasure horse numbers have greatly increased, lending to the accelerated growth of boarding and training facilities to meet their demand. 

Orange County's Equine industry ranks second in the state and has over 26 equine associations and clubs, 10,500 acres of parks available for riding and more than 60 stables with indoor riding arenas.  

• Youth Programs
• Harness Museum School Programs
• Harness Racing Opportunities For Youth
• Rutgers Equine Science 4 KidsHorse Breeds
• NYS Horse Council-youth

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Protect Your Horses from West Nile Virus

As mosquito populations increase during the summer months, horse owners should be especially aware of the risk of West Nile Virus (WNV). This year, health officials are reporting the earliest and most active start to the West Nile virus season in more than 20 years, with cases already identified across much of the United States. While these reports primarily involve human cases, they serve as an important reminder that mosquito activity is high and horses are also at increased risk of exposure.

West Nile Virus is a mosquito-borne disease that can cause serious neurological illness in horses. Mosquitoes become infected after feeding on infected birds and can then transmit the virus to horses and people. Fortunately, horses cannot spread the virus to other horses or humans.

Clinical signs can range from mild to severe and may include muscle tremors, stumbling, incoordination, weakness, depression, and difficulty standing. In severe cases, horses may become unable to rise, and the disease can be fatal. If your horse shows any neurological signs, contact your veterinarian immediately. While there is no specific cure for West Nile Virus, prompt veterinary care and supportive treatment can improve the chances of recovery.

The best protection is prevention. Annual vaccination is highly effective and is considered a core vaccine for all horses. Horse owners can also reduce mosquito exposure by:

• Eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed.
• Turning horses out during the day and limiting turnout at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
• Using approved fly and mosquito repellents.
• Installing and maintaining window and door screens in barns.
• Using fans in stalls to discourage mosquitoes from landing.

Because West Nile Virus activity varies each year and by location, horse owners are encouraged to stay informed about current cases. The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) maintains an interactive Equine Arbovirus Dashboard with the latest reported cases of West Nile Virus and other mosquito-borne diseases affecting horses across the United States. Visit the dashboard at https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/equine/arbovirus-dashboard to view the most up-to-date information.

For additional information on West Nile Virus prevention, symptoms, and management, visit the University of Minnesota Extension resource at https://extension.umn.edu/horse-health/west-nile-virus-horses.

Last updated July 2, 2026