Summerland Rodeo Grounds Shuts Down Equestrian Activities Amid Strangles Outbreak
January 19, 2026
The Summerland Rodeo Grounds have temporarily closed their doors to equestrian events due to a recent outbreak of strangles in the Okanagan Valley. This highly contagious bacterial infection, which primarily affects the respiratory system of horses, has been detected in Kelowna and West Kelowna, prompting immediate action from stables and equestrian facilities.
Strangles, a serious concern for horse owners and riders, spreads rapidly through contact with infected horses. The disease has already led to the implementation of lockdown measures in affected stables, with at least two other Okanagan facilities reporting suspected cases. The Summerland Rodeo Grounds are taking proactive steps to prevent the infection's spread, temporarily suspending all equestrian activities.
The Summerland Rodeo Grounds Equine Development Committee expressed their hope for a swift resolution, stating, 'We are working diligently to eliminate the outbreak and aim to reopen soon for our spring events. In the meantime, we urge all horse owners and enthusiasts to adhere to strict bio-security protocols to minimize the risk of further spread.'
This outbreak is not an isolated incident, as several cases have also been reported in southern Ontario. Stables and horse facilities are employing various strategies to manage the situation, including removing infected horses, implementing rigorous cleaning and disinfection protocols, and enforcing lockdowns and quarantines.
As the equestrian community grapples with this challenge, the focus is on containing the strangles outbreak and ensuring the health and well-being of horses across the region.
