The National Reining Horse Association is actively monitoring the current equine herpesvirus (EHV) situation in coordination with multiple state animal health officials. We are committed to keeping our horses, members, owners, trainers, and NRHA Futurity participants informed and will provide an updated statement on the status of the event and any necessary precautions no later than 5 p.m. Thursday.
NRHA is actively monitoring the confirmed EHV cases in Texas and Oklahoma. At this time, no cases have been identified at OKC Fair Park, and the Oklahoma State Veterinarian has confirmed that the NRHA Futurity may proceed as scheduled. We remain in continuous communication with their office and will provide updates via email, social media, and our website if new information becomes available.
Our highest priority is the health and welfare of all horses on the grounds. Should local or state officials recommend or require additional precautions, NRHA will act immediately and notify members promptly.
OKC Fair Park Bio-Security Measures
In partnership with OKC Fair Park, NRHA is implementing heightened bio-security protocols that exceed standard industry practices.
Over the next two days, OKC Fair Park will complete a full sanitization of:
- Stalling barns
- Arenas
- Round pens
- Manure receptacles
- Common traffic areas
Facility leadership has confirmed that providing a safe, bio-secure environment for every horse remains their top priority.
NRHA Bio-Security Practices
Before each major event, NRHA reviews and updates its Bio-Security Plan, including preparation of a designated isolation area if needed. All procedures align with guidance from the Oklahoma State Veterinarian and public health officials.
Key components include:
- On-site veterinarians are briefed on symptoms to monitor and instructed to alert show management immediately if concerns arise.
- Any horse showing signs of a potentially infectious disease is isolated and tested promptly.
- Direct-contact horses are separated, and exercise is managed under isolation protocols.
- Feed and bedding deliveries to isolation areas are supervised by show management.
- NRHA notifies the Oklahoma State Veterinarian and associated veterinarians of any suspected case.
- Protective equipment and clothing are required for anyone handling an isolated horse.
- A contact log is maintained for all individuals interacting with the horse.
- Horses remain onsite for continued monitoring.
- Additional protocols, developed jointly with the State Veterinarian, are followed for oversight, monitoring, and release if a positive test is confirmed.
Exhibitor Recommendations
All exhibitors are strongly encouraged to take the following precautions:
- Take and record horse temperatures prior to arrival, upon arrival, and at least twice daily during the event.
- Immediately separate and seek veterinary evaluation for any horse showing fever or respiratory/neurological symptoms.
- Increase disinfection of stalls, shared spaces, and equipment.
- Reduce horse-to-horse contact and avoid communal water and feed sources.
- Follow guidance from state and local authorities regarding tracing and containment efforts.
- Be prepared for a gate check upon arrival. All horses will be inspected to ensure current health certificates are on file before entering the venue. Please have paperwork readily accessible to help expedite the process.
Monitoring Your Horse
Please stay vigilant and watch for:
- Early signs such as elevated temperature, nasal discharge, coughing, or neurological changes.
- Any unusual behavior or movement difficulties—report these immediately to event staff and a veterinarian.
