Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (VSV): What Horse Owners in the West Should Know
- Alan Shugarman
- Jan 7
- 4 min read
Horse owners across the Western United States occasionally hear about Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (VSV) during warmer months. While the name can sound alarming, understanding what it is—and what it isn’t—helps owners respond calmly and responsibly.
At Las Vegas Horse Ranch, our goal is to keep horse owners informed so everyone can protect their horses while continuing normal routines whenever it’s safe to do so.
What Is Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (VSV)?
Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (VSV) is a contagious viral disease that primarily affects horses and cattle, and occasionally other livestock. In horses, it causes painful blisters (vesicles) that can appear on the mouth, lips, muzzle, and around the hooves.
The disease is not usually life-threatening, and most horses recover fully with supportive care within 10–14 days.
One critical reason VSV is taken seriously is that its symptoms can resemble Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD), which requires immediate reporting and testing.
How VSV Spreads
VSV spreads mainly through biting insects and direct contact, which is why cases are more common during warmer months.
Common transmission routes include:
Biting flies (black flies, sand flies, midges)
Direct contact with lesions or saliva
Shared feed and water buckets
Contaminated equipment such as halters, bits, or grooming tools
Outbreaks are often associated with summer weather and areas near waterways, where insects are more active.
Signs of VSV in Horses
Horse owners should watch for the following symptoms:
Common clinical signs:
Blisters (vesicles) on the mouth, lips, muzzle, or coronary band
Excessive drooling due to painful mouth sores
Lameness if lesions form near the hooves
Fever, depression, or loss of appetite
As blisters rupture, they leave ulcers and scabs that typically heal on their own with time and supportive care.
Diagnosis and Treatment
There is no specific cure for VSV, but most horses recover with basic supportive care.
Diagnosis:
Laboratory testing is essential to rule out Foot-and-Mouth Disease
Suspected cases are reported to animal health authorities
Treatment:
Anti-inflammatory medications (as directed by a veterinarian)
Soft or soaked feed to reduce mouth pain
Adequate hydration
Rest and reduced stress
Always consult your veterinarian if you suspect symptoms.
Biosecurity and Prevention at Boarding Facilities
Good biosecurity practices are the most effective way to reduce risk—especially in boarding environments.
Recommended prevention steps:
Isolate new horses for at least 21 days
Use individual buckets, feed tubs, and equipment
Disinfect shared surfaces and tools (approved disinfectants such as diluted bleach)
Control insects where possible
Wash hands after handling multiple horses
At Las Vegas Horse Ranch, consistent routines, clean facilities, and responsible management help reduce unnecessary risk.
Can Humans Get VSV?
In rare cases, humans handling infected animals may experience mild flu-like symptoms. These cases are uncommon, and standard hygiene practices significantly reduce risk.
Staying Informed Without Panic
VSV is manageable, and most horses recover fully. Awareness—not fear—is the best approach.
Horse owners can continue normal activities while staying alert, practicing good hygiene, and communicating with barn staff if concerns arise.
If you board with us and have questions, we encourage open communication. A well-informed community keeps everyone safer.
Trusted Resources for More Information
PDF (VSV Situation Report)
Final Thoughts for Horse Owners
Equine Vesicular Stomatitis Virus is something horse owners should understand, not fear. With good communication, solid biosecurity, and informed care, outbreaks can be managed responsibly.
Las Vegas Horse Ranch remains committed to transparency, education, and practical horse care—now and into 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (VSV)
What is Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (VSV)?
Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (VSV) is a contagious viral disease that affects horses and some livestock. In horses, it typically causes blisters on the mouth or near the hooves and usually resolves with supportive care.
Is VSV dangerous to horses?
Most horses recover fully within 10–14 days. While symptoms can be uncomfortable, VSV is rarely life-threatening when properly managed.
How does VSV spread between horses?
VSV is spread mainly by biting insects such as black flies, sand flies, and midges. It can also spread through direct contact, shared water or feed buckets, and contaminated equipment.
What are the most common signs of VSV in horses?
Common signs include:
Blisters or sores on the lips, mouth, muzzle, or coronary band
Excessive drooling
Lameness if hoof areas are affected
Fever, reduced appetite, or mild depression
How long does VSV last?
In most cases, symptoms improve within 10–14 days with supportive care such as soft feed, hydration, and rest.
How is VSV diagnosed?
Laboratory testing is required to confirm VSV and rule out Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD). Suspected cases are typically reported to animal health officials.
Is there a treatment or cure for VSV?
There is no specific cure, but treatment focuses on comfort:
Anti-inflammatory medications (as prescribed by a veterinarian)
Soft or soaked feed
Adequate hydration
Reduced stress
Can humans get VSV?
In rare cases, people handling infected animals may experience mild, flu-like symptoms. Basic hygiene practices greatly reduce this risk.
Should horse owners stop boarding or traveling during VSV season?
Not necessarily. Staying informed, practicing good biosecurity, and monitoring horses daily are usually sufficient. Most facilities continue normal operations with added precautions.
How can horse owners help prevent the spread of VSV?
Key prevention steps include:
Isolating new horses for 21 days
Using individual buckets and equipment
Disinfecting shared tools and surfaces
Managing insects where possible
Washing hands after handling horses
What should I do if I suspect VSV?
Contact your veterinarian promptly. Early evaluation helps ensure proper care and appropriate reporting if needed.
Does Las Vegas Horse Ranch take precautions for biosecurity?
Yes. Clean facilities, consistent routines, and responsible management help reduce unnecessary risk while keeping horses comfortable and safe.
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