08/21/2026
Horse family, please be aware that it that time of year again unfortunately. Be aware of the signs and symptoms of a possible infection on your horses, your pets, and for yourself.
Stay safe everyone!
🚨 HEALTH ALERT FOR CENTRAL MONTANA PET & LIVESTOCK OWNERS 🚨
A mosquito pool collected southeast of Simms in Cascade County recently tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV)—the first positive detection in our county this year. While local authorities have treated the immediate area and continue active surveillance, this finding is an important reminder that WNV is present in our region.
Here is what you need to know to protect your horses, dogs, and cats, along with answers to common questions!
🐴 HORSES:
Horses are particularly vulnerable to West Nile Virus, and severe neurological infection can be fatal or require long-term recovery.
Vaccinate Immediately: The WNV vaccine is highly effective! If your horse has not been vaccinated or is due for an annual booster, contact us right away.
Property Management: Drain standing water in pastures, refresh water troughs at least weekly.
Mosquito Protection: If possible, keep horses stabled during peak mosquito hours (Dusk & Dawn), use equine-safe insect repellents/permethrin sprays, and turn on fans in barns to disrupt mosquito flight.
🐶🐱 DOGS & CATS:
While dogs and cats can contract West Nile Virus. Although severe clinical illness is rare, mosquitoes carry other dangerous parasites (like Heartworm), so protection is essential!
Year-Round Heartworm & Vector Control: Ensure your dogs and cats are on vet-approved monthly preventatives that repel or kill biting insects and protect against heartworm disease.
❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
Q: Can my dog or cat catch West Nile Virus directly from my horse?
A: No. West Nile Virus is not contagious between animals or from animals to humans. It is spread exclusively through the bite of an infected mosquito (primarily Culex species).
Q: What are the symptoms of West Nile Virus in horses?
A: Symptoms can appear 3–14 days after exposure. Look out for stumble/incoordination, muscle tremors, weakness in the hind legs, inability to stand, fever, hypersensitivity, or head pressing. Contact a vet immediately if you notice these signs!
📞 Have questions about WNV vaccines for your horses or prevention for all of your pets? Give our clinic a call today 406-727-0477 to make sure your animals are fully protected this season! Stay safe, Central Montana! 🌾🐴🐾
