Strangles Awareness Week 2026 (SAW26) has achieved its biggest reach yet, with campaign organisers announcing that awareness messages were seen by more than 6 million people throughout the week-long initiative.
The impressive figure highlights the power of the equestrian community working together to promote better biosecurity, disease prevention and horse health. Every post, share and conversation contributed to spreading vital information about Strangles, helping more horse owners understand how they can protect their horses from one of the most common infectious diseases affecting equines.
Engagement levels were equally encouraging, with SAW26 campaign content generating more than 49,000 likes, shares, comments and saves across social media platforms. The strong response demonstrates the continued importance of disease prevention and biosecurity within the horse industry, and shows that horse owners are keen to learn more about protecting their horses and yards.
While awareness is a key objective of the campaign, organisers recognise that reaching people is only the first step towards improving biosecurity standards across the UK. Of particular significance were the many comments and discussions from horse owners sharing how they had implemented the campaign’s key messages in practice. Examples included introducing quarantine procedures for new arrivals, reviewing vaccination policies, carrying out regular health monitoring and strengthening yard biosecurity protocols.
LiveryList has been proud to support Strangles Awareness Week as an official ambassador since the campaign’s inception, helping to spread the message of good biosecurity, responsible horse ownership and effective disease prevention throughout the equestrian community. Through educational content, resources and industry engagement, LiveryList continues to support initiatives that encourage horse owners and yard managers to adopt best practice and reduce the risk of infectious disease transmission.
Looking ahead, horse owners and equestrian professionals will have the opportunity to learn even more about biosecurity, horse health and welfare at Yard Wise, taking place this September. Strangles Awareness Week Campaign Lead Helen Whitelegg and veterinary welfare expert Nic de Brauwere will both be joining the event as expert speakers on Day One, sharing their knowledge and practical advice with attendees.
Those wishing to learn more about biosecurity, horse welfare and yard management can find further information and secure their place at www.yardwise.co.uk.
The success of SAW26 demonstrates that awareness campaigns can make a real difference when the equestrian community works together. By continuing to promote education, practical action and responsible horse ownership, the campaign is helping to drive positive change and improve biosecurity standards across the UK horse industry.