Summary
Prepurchase examinations require careful instructions regarding expectations as to
which procedures are to be performed. Importation requirements change constantly and
it is essential that the veterinarian has current information concerning regulations.
On occasions there have been horses that test positive on arrival which had tested
negative in Europe. No test has a 100 % sensitivity or specificity. The European as
well as the new US owner must recognize this potential problem. Despite preventative
measures, CEM was cultured in 1978 in Kentucky, 1979 in Missouri, 2006 in Wisconsin
and in December 2008 in a Quarter Horse stallion's semen that was being prepared for
international shipment from Kentucky. During this most recent CEM outbreak, CEM was
cultured from 21 stallions and 5 mares over a 6 months period in California, Georgia,
Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Texas and Wisconsin. It is questionable, if the
USA are still free of CEM.
Having an understanding of testing requirements for exotic diseases and an appreciation
for potential misunderstandings that may occur during a foreign prepurchase examination
will allow veterinarians to best advise their clients. Working with an European veterinarian
who is well acquainted with export procedures and employing a reputable shipping company
will help ensure that your patient arrives safely at its final destination and everybody
is satisfied.
Key words
Horses - semen - prepurchase examination - quarantine - export - import
Literatur
harland@pferdeklinik-muehlen.de
