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Step 1
Know that the only way for an animal to get the virus is through mosquito transmission. Current studies show there's no evidence of animal to animal or person to animal transmission.
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Step 2
House your horses indoors if possible during high periods of mosquito activity. To protect your horse against mosquitoes, keep the animals indoors at dusk and dawn.
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Step 3
Keep birds away from the horses to prevent mosquito bites on your horses. If you find dead birds nearby, you'll want to dispose of them as well.
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Step 4
Use bug repellents on your horses. To protect against the West Nile virus, spray a topical lotion on your horses. You can also fog your stables with a pesticide at night as long as the product does not have any harmful effects on horses. You can find safe mosquito repellent products from the Doctors Foster and Smith product line.
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Step 5
Place fans on your horses. Not only will the fan keep your horse comfortable, it will also repel mosquitoes.
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Step 6
Speak to your vet. Currently, a vaccine to protect your horse against West Nile virus is available. After the initial series of vaccinations, get your horse a yearly booster shot.
