Abstract
Background: Biosecurity plays an important role in the
prevention and control of infectious disease outbreaks in the equine
population. With competition organizers responsible for upholding
biosecurity requirements at competitions, it is important to understand
the biosecurity landscape at these locations where Ontario horses
commonly travel and interact in large group settings. Group settings are
one of the risk factors for pathogen exposure. Objectives: The
objective of this study was to develop an understanding of the
perspectives, challenges and experiences of competition organizers of
both sanctioned and unsanctioned events in Ontario, Canada regarding
implementing equine biosecurity at competitions. Study Design:
This study used a qualitative research approach in order to be able to
best gather data regarding the lived experiences of competition
organizers. Methods: Semi-structured, individual interviews
were conducted virtually with 10 Ontario competition organizers in
English disciplines (Eventing, Dressage, Hunter/Jumper). A reflexive
thematic analysis using an inductive approach was used to analyze the
interview data. Results: Interviews resulted in two major
themes: (i) biosecurity at competitions is a balancing act among other
important considerations and (ii) there is a disconnect between groups
that play key roles in biosecurity at competitions. Main
Limitations: The recruitment process also allowed for the possibility
of introducing self-selection bias where some of the participants may
have an existing interest in biosecurity, which may not be
representative of all competition organizers. Individual interviews as
well as the design of the interview guide also helped to mitigate the
potential for social desirability bias. Conclusions:
Biosecurity at equestrian competitions is a multifaceted issue that
requires stakeholder input and buy-in to be successful. However, there
is an overall willingness from competition organizers to work towards
finding a path forward to improving biosecurity and maintaining equine
health and welfare at competitions.