The Summerland rodeo Grounds has closed all equestrian activities due to an outbreak of strangles, a highly contagious bacterial infection affecting horses’ respiratory systems, in the Okanagan Valley. The infection has been confirmed in Kelowna and West Kelowna, with suspected cases at other local facilities, prompting stables to enforce lockdowns and strict biosecurity measures to contain the spread.

The Summerland rodeo Grounds aims to eliminate the outbreak and hopes to resume its spring events soon, urging the community to follow recommended hygiene and quarantine protocols. Similar outbreaks have also been reported in southern Ontario, where horse facilities are managing the disease by isolating infected animals and enhancing cleaning and disinfection practices.