Ridecamp: Re: [RC] Pigeon's Disease??

Title: Re: [RC] Pigeon's Disease??

> Just what is this -
> can someone enlighten me? My husband heard something about it on the
> news and called and told me to vaccinate the horses NOW. Pronto. What
> is this?
> Sandy

From the AAEP website (http://www.myhorsematters.com/newsletters/jan2002.html):

> FAQ of the Month
>
> What is Pigeon's Disease? Is it contagious and how can I prevent my
> horse from acquiring it?
>
> Pigeon's Disease is of primary concern to horses living in California.
> When biting flies deposit bacteria on the skin, lumps/abscesses
> develop. Sometimes the infection spreads to internal organs causing
> general illness-horses may be off their feed, depressed and usually
> febrile. Treatment may include hot packs or poultices for the
> abscesses and antibiotics. The biting flies are the culprits in
> transmitting the bacteria. Environmental fly control, topically
> applied fly sprays, and avoiding turnout when flies are at their worst
> are management techniques that may help prevent this
> disease.

It's also called Dryland Distemper (http://www.animalnetwork.com/horses/reference/dryland.asp) here, but while the abscesses are really gross to treat and drain, in general it isn't life-threatening.