Vaccine Tips To Protect Your Horse

As a responsible horse owner, you’ll probably considered what vaccines to give your horse, if any. Vaccinations can help to minimize disease and illness in your horse. Without a strong program, you can greatly reduce the effectiveness of the vaccine. Follow these tips to protect your barn!

• Consider your horse’s risk factors. This could include his age, geographic location, and other horses he is exposed to.
• Determine how serious the targeted disease is if contracted. Could your horse die or spread it you or your other pets?
• Utilize a veterinarian. If an allergic reaction occurred, the vet would be able to respond quickly before tragedy hits. The professional would also ensure the vaccine was stored properly and not expired.
• Keep detailed records to know when the vaccination was given and how often it needs to be done.
• Follow up with boosters and vaccines that require multiple doses.
• Talk to your veterinarian about your foal and when to get him started on a program. This might also include prevention that starts with the mare.
• Watch your horse closely for a few days following the administration. Side effects can include body aches, slight fever, swelling at the injection sight, and more severe reactions like infections.

Core vaccines often include Tetanus, Rabies, Eastern/ Western encephalomyelitis, and West Nile virus. Risk-based vaccinations may consist of Potomac Horse Fever, Influenza, Rhinopneumonitis, Strangles, Anthrax, Equine Viral Arteritis, and Botulism.

Protect your horse by carefully evaluating his situation and speaking with your veterinarian.