The mystery deaths of at least 10 horses on three separate properties in Victoria has prompted an urgent investigation by state authorities.
Agriculture Victoria on Sunday confirmed 10 horses had died suddenly on properties on the Mornington Peninsula, in south-east Melbourne and south-west Victoria since 4 July.
All 10 horses died quickly and displaying what Agriculture Victoria described as “short-term non-specific signs of illness”.
The cause of the deaths is unknown and has prompted significant concern among local owners. Testing has so far not found any sign of infectious diseases including Hendra virus and anthrax, although investigations are continuing.
Agriculture Victoria has received further reports of horse deaths on its social media channels. Those deaths are yet to be confirmed and the department is urging owners and veterinarians to make contact.
“Our staff are working with local veterinarians and experts to investigate the cause of multiple sudden horse deaths at three properties in Victoria,” a spokesperson said.
“The investigation is in its very early stages and extensive information gathering and testing is under way to understand the possible causes of the illness and deaths.”
Owners are being urged to monitor their horses and report any sudden deaths or onset of illness. Reports should be made to local vets, Agriculture Victoria or via the emergency animal disease hotline on 1800 675 888.
The agency said early sampling and detection were key to understanding the causes of the deaths.
A number of agistment properties have gone into voluntary lockdown, a precautionary measure that does not necessarily mean they have recorded sudden horse deaths.
Victoria’s chief veterinary officer, Dr Graeme Cooke, said testing for a range of disease and non-disease causes was under way.
He urged horse owners against speculation or sharing unconfirmed information online.
“We know this is a difficult time for horse owners, that’s why we are working with veterinarians and a range of experts to find answers,” he said. “Please do not share unconfirmed information online or on social media.”
It is uncommon for multiple horses to die at the same time on a single property. Agriculture Victoria said it was not always possible to definitively identify a cause, although investigators prioritise infectious causes and the ingestion of toxins as possibilities.
