Strangles is a highly contagious bacterial disease caused by Streptococcus equi. It is spread by direct contact with infected horses or carriers. The disease can also be transmitted via contaminated water troughs/buckets, feed bunks/buckets, stalls, tack, trailers, and people. It usually affects young horses but can afflict animals of any age. Horses in high-density management systems (i.e. breeding farms) and those in high traffic areas such as shows and events are at higher risk of being exposed and infected by S. equi. There are however, many steps horse owners can take to protect their horse from the disease.

As routine maintenance for your horse, vaccinations for infectious diseases should be given on a regular basis. There are several diseases that can be deadly if your horse is not protected.