WCJB just learned that a ban restricting Florida Horses has been lifted pending the horses see a vet fifteen days before they cross the border and have not been exposed to Equine Pyroplasmosis

It's a horse disease thought to be brought in from Mexico, but its now turned up in quarter horses here in Florida.

Now thoroughbred owners will feel the effects.

According to the Florida Department of Agriculture Equine Piroplasmosis is a blood- borne disease which was eradicated from Florida in the 80's.

Officials say the disease first turned up in Manatee County after they discovered an unregulated racing organization which was using dirty needles to inoculate the quarter horses .

Farm manager Philip Hronic of Winding Oaks Farm says,

" Let's say they don't lift the ban and we have mares here that's going to foal in January and we're still not allowed to go up to Canada Then there will be a big problem."

In order to participate in Canadian races like the Queen's Plate, the mares must have the foals in Canada and stay in the country for 150 days.

Breeders and owners that missed the Oct 1st deadline can call the Canadian Thoroughbred Society at 416- 675 -3602 to ask for an extension.