09/14/2026
Wildlight Ranch — Strangles Update
We are providing an update on the strangles cases identified at Wildlight Ranch and where we currently stand.
We currently have 4 confirmed cases and 3 suspected cases, all within the original pasture where symptoms were first identified. There are no suspected or confirmed cases anywhere else on the property, and we have had no new suspected cases since September 4th. All 7 affected horses are doing well, with no complications reported.
The first symptoms were identified during evening feeding on September 1st, when four horses in the same pasture were found to have runny noses and elevated temperatures. They were immediately isolated, our veterinarian was contacted that evening, and additional biosecurity protocols were put into place before a diagnosis was confirmed. Boarders were notified that night and a stay-in-place recommendation was issued.
Three additional horses in the same pasture showed potential symptoms on September 4 and were immediately treated as suspected cases. The first positive test was received September 6, with additional results following shortly thereafter.
Since the initial symptoms appeared, we have maintained enhanced biosecurity, sanitation, isolation, and movement-control measures throughout the facility and have worked closely with our veterinarian to continually evaluate and adjust our protocols.
As a precaution, we have also canceled or rescheduled upcoming fall and early-winter events and suspended outside horse traffic. While disappointing, we believe this is the responsible decision for our horses, our boarders, and the broader equine community.
A reminder to our local equine community:
Strangles is currently circulating throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin, with cases being reported in multiple facilities and organizations. Wildlight Ranch had very minimal horse traffic in and out this summer, which is an important reminder that biosecurity matters even when exposure does not seem obvious. We may never know exactly how this reached our facility, but we do know that prevention and responsible response are critical.
Our cases have been submitted to the appropriate channels. As a facility owner, I believe transparency and responsible reporting are essential to helping our community make informed decisions and prevent further spread.
Our priority remains simple: contain this, protect the horses in our care, and return to normal operations as soon as it is responsible to do so.
Thank you to our boarders and community for your patience, cooperation, and understanding. If you have questions about our current protocols or the situation at Wildlight Ranch, please reach out directly.
— Alaina
Wildlight Ranch
