Every year the annual National Finals Rodeo draws thousands to Las Vegas for two weeks of rodeo competitions. This year, a contagious horse virus loomed over the festivities, resulting in some changes to curb the spread of the virus. The equine herpesvirus can cause neurologic symptoms among horses, and in some serious cases can result in death. Rodeo organizers, horse boarding facilities and owners took extra precautions this year to curb the spread of the outbreak. Nevada required entry permits for all horses, and rodeos required daily temperature checks and stricter cleaning protocols. Some horse owners chose to bring fewer horses this year, while others decided not to come at all.