SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. (AP) — New York regulators say Saratoga Raceway has suspended live racing until April 11 after several horses were diagnosed with a highly contagious bacterial infection.
The Racing and Wagering Board said it learned of the Strangles infections Thursday and agreed Friday with the track’s request to shut down harness racing. Strangles also is known as “equine distemper.” The bacteria infect the upper respiratory system. It is rarely life-threatening.
Veterinarians will continue monitoring the backstretch and isolating and treating infected horses at the Saratoga Springs track.
Missed races will be made up at later dates.
