Paris may be far for the athletes, but spare a thought for the horses traveling across continents for the Olympic and Paralympic equestrian events.
All horses in this year’s tournament must undergo a seven-day pre-export quarantine, where they are tested for diseases like equine influenza. While there is no evidence of horses carrying or transmitting COVID, they can spread equine coronavirus (ECoV).
Transportation for horses involves planes. They travel on specially chartered planes in an exclusive business class provided by the British Equestrian Society. If needed, horses may be sedated during the flight, but they are often seen enjoying the journey with food and a team of staff and veterinarians for company.
Upon arrival, horses are isolated for the duration of the Olympics and receive specialized care during their stay.
During the games, horses have a chance to win medals for their jockeys, though they themselves don’t receive precious metals, but ribbons as a reward.
About the Author, Kimberly Bond
Kimberly is a science and psychology writer whose articles have appeared in Wired, The Independent, Radio Times and The Telegraph.
Source: www.sciencefocus.com
