Vaccinations

Vaccinating horses is essential for protecting them from various of infectious diseases that can be harmful or even fatal. Here are a few key reasons why we vaccinate our horses:

Disease Prevention - Vaccines help prevent horses from contracting serious diseases, such as equine influenza, tetanus and strangles, by stimulating the horse's immune system to recognise and fight off pathogens before they cause illness.
Public Health - Some equine diseases, like equine encephalitis or rabies, can be transmitted to humans or other animals. Vaccinating horses helps protect the animals and the people who come into contact with them.
Preventing Outbreaks - Vaccinating horses reduces the risk of disease outbreaks in stables, farms and events. This is especially important for horses that travel and interact with others.
Legal Requirements - In some areas, vaccination is required by law, particularly for horses participating in competitions, traveling across borders, or attending events.
Maintain Overall Health - Regular vaccinations are part of a holistic approach to maintaining a horse’s overall health. It supports their immune system, which is crucial for preventing illness and promoting recovery if they do become sick.

Common vaccines for horses include those for:

Equine Influenza
Tetanus
Strangles
Equine Herpesvirus

Vaccination schedules vary depending on the horse’s age and lifestyle so it’s essential to consult a vet to ensure proper protection.

Influenza

Equine Influenza is a highly contagious viral infection that affects horses, causing respiratory symptoms like fever, coughing, nasal discharge and lethargy. It spreads quickly through direct contact and airborne droplets, especially in stables or at events. While it’s rarely fatal, it can cause significant downtime for affected horses due to recovery time and reduced performance.

Vaccination is the best way to prevent equine influenza. It’s recommended for all horses, particularly those in regular contact with other horses. The vaccine helps protect against the virus and reduces the risk of outbreaks.

Tetanus

Equine Tetanus is a serious and often fatal disease caused by the bacteria Clostridium tetani, which produces toxins affecting the nervous system. The bacteria are commonly found in soil, manure and on rusty or contaminated objects. Horses can become infected if a wound or injury is exposed to these bacteria, leading to muscle stiffness, spasms and difficulty moving.

Tetanus is preventable through vaccination. Horses should receive an initial tetanus vaccine at around 4-6 months of age, with boosters given annually. If a horse suffers a wound, a tetanus antitoxin may be administered as an emergency measure.

Tetanus is a medical emergency, and rapid treatment is crucial if a horse is suspected of being infected.

Equine Herpes Viruses

Equine Herpesvirus (EHV) refers to a group of viruses that can cause a variety of illnesses in horses, ranging from respiratory disease to neurological conditions. The most common types are EHV-1 (which can cause abortion, neurological disease and respiratory issues) and EHV-4 (mainly responsible for respiratory symptoms). The virus spreads through respiratory droplets, direct contact with infected horses, or contaminated equipment. It can also be spread via the placenta in pregnant mares.

Vaccination can help reduce the severity of respiratory symptoms and, in some cases, prevent abortion. However, vaccines don’t completely eliminate the risk of neurological disease. Maintaining good biosecurity practices and isolating sick horses can help prevent outbreaks.

Strangles

Strangles is a highly contagious bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus Equi Equi. It primarily affects the respiratory system and is characterised by abscesses in the lymph nodes, particularly around the head and neck.

Strangles spreads through direct contact with infected horses, their nasal discharge, or contaminated objects (tack, water buckets, etc.). The bacteria can survive in the environment for several weeks.

Vaccination is available to help reduce the severity of the disease and prevent outbreaks, though it does not guarantee complete immunity. Good hygiene practices, isolation of affected horses and biosecurity measures are crucial to preventing the spread.