The ESSENTIALS of Spring Horse Care: Vaccinations

Spring is in the air, and that means it's time to start thinking about spring horse care! One of the most important things you need to do is make sure your horses are vaccinated. Here are some of the most essential vaccines every horse needs in order to stay healthy this season.

Rabies: Rabies is a deadly virus that can be transmitted to horses from other animals, such as raccoons or bats. It's important to vaccinate your horse against rabies every year to protect them from this deadly disease.

EEE/WEE: Eastern equine encephalitis and Western equine encephalitis are both viral diseases that can cause serious neurological problems in horses. Both of these diseases are spread by mosquitoes, so it's important to vaccinate your horse against them each year to protect them from infection.

West Nile Virus: West Nile Virus is another mosquito-borne virus that can cause serious health problems in horses. It's important to vaccinate your horse against West Nile Virus each year to help protect them from this deadly disease.

Tetanus: Tetanus is a bacterial infection that can cause muscle spasms and stiffness in horses. It's important to vaccinate your horse against tetanus every year to protect them from this dangerous infection.

If you plan to travel with your horse to shows or trail rides or other events where he might have contact with other horses, your horse should also receive "risk based" vaccines for common contact diseases, such as equine herpesvirus and strangles. These vaccines can help protect your horse from getting sick if he comes in contact with other horses that are carrying these diseases.

Make sure you talk to your veterinarian about what vaccines your horse needs this spring, and make sure he gets all of his vaccinations up-to-date! Vaccinating your horses is one of the most important things you can do to keep them healthy during the spring season.

For more information on horse vaccines, visit the American Association of Equine Practitioners website.

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