A Coggins test is a simple blood test for Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA), a retroviral infection that infects horses and can be deadly. It can be transmitted by certain fly species. Symptoms may include fever, lethargy, petechial hemorrhages, dependent edema, yellow mucous membranes (jaundice), and anemia.
Some horses carry the disease without showing symptoms. If the horse contracts and survives the disease, they will always carry the virus. The best prevention against the disease is to test for the disease. Any time you get a new horse or introduce a new horse into your stable, you should test the horse to be sure it does not have the disease.
Horses that travel frequently need to be tested regularly. Many shows and other places where horses travel recommend or require that all horses be tested to prevent the spread of this deadly disease.
We take great pride in having extremely fast turnaround times for our Coggins testing. Please call us to schedule a Coggins test for your horse. In addition, we are available to answer any of your questions about the Coggins test or Equine Infectious Anemia.