Abstract
<jats:p>Strangles is a highly contagious upper respiratory disease of equids caused by Streptococcus equi subsp. equi, characterized by suppurative lymphadenitis of the submandibular and retropharyngeal lymph nodes and, in severe cases, by life-threatening upper airway obstruction. This case report describes the successful field management of a 4-month-old foal presenting with acute dyspnea, inspiratory stridor, and extensive cervical swelling consistent with strangles. As the owner declined referral to a veterinary hospital, a temporary tracheostomy was performed on-site under field conditions to re-establish airway patency. Postoperative management included systemic antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory therapy, daily local wound care, and drainage of the abscess cavity. The foal showed rapid clinical improvement following the procedure, with complete healing within four weeks. This case demonstrates that, when performed under strict aseptic conditions and accompanied by appropriate medical management and postoperative monitoring, emergency airway surgery for obstructive strangles can be successfully and safely performed in field settings where hospitalization is not feasible.</jats:p>