Evidence and Molecular Characterization of Multidrug Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Isolated From Equines in Pakistan

•Staphylococcus aureus exhibits a high nasal colonization rate (42.86%) among equines.•Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant S. aureus (VRSA) are emerging and prevailing among different equine species.•Phylogenetic analysis revealed high potential of transfer of pathogens within and between animal species.•Local isolates revealed varying resistance pattern against various antibiotics.