Uvalde, Texas, November 21, 2025
The Uvalde Rodeo Qualifier has been canceled amid a serious outbreak of Equine Herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). Collaborative efforts by major rodeo organizations prioritize horse health, following the guidance of the Texas Animal Health Commission. As EHV-1 poses significant risks, including severe neurological conditions, event organizers urge strict biosecurity measures. This cancellation raises concerns over the ripple effects on future rodeo events, but organizers aim to resume activities in Uvalde next year.
Uvalde, Texas: Rodeo Events Canceled Amid Equine Herpesvirus-1 Outbreak
Uvalde, Texas – The Uvalde Rodeo Qualifier, scheduled for November 19–22, 2025, has been canceled due to an outbreak of Equine Herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). This decision was made collaboratively by the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA), and the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) to prioritize the health and safety of participating horses.
Details of the Cancellation
The Uvalde Rodeo Qualifier serves as a qualifying event for the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, advancing 10 calf ropers to the main event in February. The cancellation follows guidance from the Texas Animal Health Commission, which has been monitoring the EHV-1 outbreak across Texas and surrounding regions. The outbreak is believed to be linked to a recent large rodeo event in Waco, where horses began showing symptoms after the competition.
Impact on Other Rodeo Events
In addition to the Uvalde cancellation, the PRCA has also postponed the Boot Barn Prairie Circuit Finals Rodeo, originally set for November 19–22 at the Kansas Star Arena in Mulvane, Kansas. This decision aims to minimize the spread of EHV-1, which can cause severe neurological disease in horses.
Understanding EHV-1
EHV-1 is a contagious virus that primarily affects horses, leading to respiratory illness and, in severe cases, Equine Herpes Myeloencephalopathy (EHM), a neurological disease. Symptoms of EHM include high fever, lack of coordination, nasal discharge, and head tilt. The virus spreads through horse-to-horse contact, contaminated equipment, and human handling.
Preventive Measures and Recommendations
Equine owners and event organizers are advised to implement strict biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of EHV-1. This includes isolating new or returning horses for at least 14 days, disinfecting equipment and facilities regularly, and monitoring horses for any signs of illness. Prompt reporting of suspected cases to local animal health authorities is crucial for controlling outbreaks.
Looking Ahead
Organizers of the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo have stated that they expect to return to Uvalde next year and do not foresee issues for the main event in February. They are working on how the cancellation will affect the contestant field for the upcoming rodeo season.
Related Event Postponements
Other rodeo events have also been affected by the EHV-1 outbreak. The DeSoto County Pro Rodeo, scheduled for November 19–21, has been postponed to December 12–13 at the DeSoto County Agri-Education Center in Nesbit, Mississippi. This decision was made out of an abundance of caution to protect the health and well-being of the horses involved.
Conclusion
The cancellation of the Uvalde Rodeo Qualifier and the postponement of other rodeo events underscore the serious impact of the EHV-1 outbreak on the equine community. Stakeholders are urged to adhere to recommended biosecurity practices to safeguard the health of horses and ensure the continuity of future events.
What is Equine Herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1)?
EHV-1 is a contagious virus that primarily affects horses, leading to respiratory illness and, in severe cases, Equine Herpes Myeloencephalopathy (EHM), a neurological disease. Symptoms of EHM include high fever, lack of coordination, nasal discharge, and head tilt. The virus spreads through horse-to-horse contact, contaminated equipment, and human handling.
Why was the Uvalde Rodeo Qualifier canceled?
The Uvalde Rodeo Qualifier was canceled due to an outbreak of Equine Herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). This decision was made collaboratively by the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA), and the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) to prioritize the health and safety of participating horses.
What are the symptoms of EHV-1?
Symptoms of EHV-1 include high fever, lack of coordination, nasal discharge, and head tilt. In severe cases, it can lead to Equine Herpes Myeloencephalopathy (EHM), a neurological disease.
How is EHV-1 transmitted?
EHV-1 spreads through horse-to-horse contact, contaminated equipment, and human handling. It is highly contagious among horses.
What preventive measures can be taken against EHV-1?
Preventive measures include isolating new or returning horses for at least 14 days, disinfecting equipment and facilities regularly, and monitoring horses for any signs of illness. Prompt reporting of suspected cases to local animal health authorities is crucial for controlling outbreaks.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Cancellations | The Uvalde Rodeo Qualifier and the Boot Barn Prairie Circuit Finals Rodeo have been canceled due to the EHV-1 outbreak. |
| Impact on Other Events | The DeSoto County Pro Rodeo has been postponed to December 12–13, 2025, to protect horse health. |
| Understanding EHV-1 | EHV-1 is a contagious virus affecting horses, leading to respiratory illness and, in severe cases, neurological disease. |
| Preventive Measures | Equine owners and event organizers are advised to implement strict biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of EHV-1. |
| Looking Ahead | Organizers expect to return to Uvalde next year and do not foresee issues for the main event in February. |
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