02/16/2022
**ATTENTION LARGE ANIMAL CLIENTS**
Please see the statement from UF below regarding the recent cases of suspected botulism we have been seeing in our area. If any signs are observed in your animals, please contact our clinic at 386-586-3000 or UF at 352-392-2229.
"The University of Florida Large Animal Hospital is currently treating a number of horses with suspected botulism. Botulism is an often fatal neuromuscular disease caused by ingestion of botulinum toxin. Sources of botulinum toxin include round bales, alfalfa blocks, soil, and contaminated grains. It can affect all mammals, however, horses are one of the most susceptible species.
Clinical signs of botulism include generalized weakness and laying down more than normal, slow eating and/or dysphagia, weak tongue tone, trembling, low head carriage, and in many cases, death. Botulism antitoxin is critically important for the survival of affected horses, and is available through the UF Large Animal Hospital."