(CLARK COUNTY, Nev.) – With the upcoming equine event season, the Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA) is updating entry requirements and reminding horse owners to practice preventive biosecurity measures to reduce the risk of animal disease, such as Equine Herpesvirus (EHV). While there are no confirmed cases of EHV in Nevada at this time, horse owners are encouraged to remain vigilant as cases increase in surrounding regions. The NDA reminds everyone to check on current entry requirements and comply with those when traveling to and from Nevada.

“Convergence of large numbers of horses at events can increase the risk of disease spread,” said NDA State Veterinarian Peter Rolfe. “Horse owners should remain vigilant and take proactive measures to protect their animals during travel and increased animal interaction.”

Nevada’s entry requirements are being modified ahead of event season to reduce the risk of disease transmission. New requirements include:

  • Entry permits are required for horses until Jan. 1, 2026.
  • Certificate of Veterinary Inspection stating: “No animals presented on this CVI have been on a premise with a confirmed case of EHV-1 within the last 21 days.”
  • USDA accredited veterinarians can visit agri.nv.gov/Animals/Animal_Disease/Import_Requirements to complete an Entry Permit for horses entering Nevada.

“We are not stopping movements at this time,” said NDA State Veterinarian Rolfe. “We are taking extra precautions to help prevent the spread of animal disease.”

The NDA recommends biosecurity practices and to always monitor horses for signs of disease, like fever or runny nose. Biosecurity means implementing practices to reduce chances of an infectious disease being transferred by people, animals, equipment or vehicles. EHV and other diseases can be easily transferred on boots, coats, gloves and equipment. Some basic practices include:

  • Never share equipment between horses.
  • Take your horse’s temperature twice daily, especially during and after travel or events.
  • Isolate new or returning horses. Quarantine horses for at least 21 days before integrating them into your herd.
  • Always start chores with healthy horses, and end with sick or recovering (within 30 days) horses.
  • Clean and disinfect stalls, trailers, and equipment thoroughly.

During event season, NDA State Veterinarian Rolfe is also recommending temperature checks twice a day for 21 days to monitor for signs of disease. Other signs of disease to look out for include:

  • Fever
  • Incoordination, stumbling, weakness or inability to stand
  • Difficulty urinating or dribbling urine
  • Runny nose or coughing
  • Reduced appetite
  • Enlarged lymph nodes

For more information or if your horse begins showing signs of illness, contact your local veterinarian immediately. EHV is a reportable disease under Nevada Revised Statute (NRS) 571.160, and veterinarians are required to notify the NDA when cases are diagnosed.