If Vegas could talk...

"I don't need shots!"

Vegas has such a kind, sweet face and is a real softy in the barn. I take preventative care seriously. The more you know about vaccinations and other regular health care programs, the better your horse will be! It may seem like a lot of money to regularly deworm and vaccinate, but it ends up saving you money!! It is much better to spend smaller amounts year round if possible instead of getting serious vet bills and having a sick horse.

So here are some more shots to consider giving your horse:

 (Credit: Google Images)

 1. Tetanus. This goes for both humans and horses. :) Horses are around nails either from fence posts or their stalls and you never know what could happen. A nail could pop off. I used to have a little black pony, Diamond, who was small enough to pop off fence boards. This could have resulted in some nasty medical issues. Diamond was lucky, no serious problems. To bve on the safe side, give your horse a tetanus shot, because I have learned if a horse can get into something they will. *cough* Vegas *cough*

 

2.Influenza. Influenza is an extremely contagious respiratory disease. it is characterized by nasal discharge, a dry distinctive cough and fever. Influenza is important in keeping the infection at bay and preventing your horse from getting extremely sick. It is harsher and more susceptible to young horses under the age of five. It is easily spread between horses. Although you may think your horse is over the infection you need to keep them away from horses up to ten days after the virus disappears. Wash all equipment that comes in contact with the infected horse. Before letting a new horse into any already established herd, quarantine the new horse(s) for up to fourteen days. This is a good way of preventing this virus and make sure your horse gets its boosters and yearly shots.

3. Eastern  Encephalomyelitis.  Eastern Encephalomyelitis is often referred to as sleeping sickness. Watch out for those mosquitoes! Horses are most likely to get this virus from mosquitoes. This virus typically results in paralysis and later death within four days of the first symptoms showing. The symptoms start appearing within no more than four weeks from the infection date. The first warning sign is a high fever. The fever usually disappears within a few days and later anxiousness appears in your horse with problems affecting the brain i.e. abnormal gait (difficulty to move), the horse will usually hang its head. Although there is no cure for this it is easily prevented through vaccinating.

(Credit: Google Images)

There are many others to think about like strangles, potomac horse fever, anthrax, the list can be endless. Talk to your veterinarian as vaccines will vary depending on your horse's age and use. Broodmare need vaccines throughout their pregnancy. If you are ever unsure about preventative vaccine programs, talk to your vet. Your horse may not like needles, but they will thank you when they do not get sick! NO ONE LIKES TO BE SICK!

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Vegas sure is healthy and happy! :)