Vaccination should be part of a health programme for all horses. The following diseases can be vaccinated for:

1. Tetanus
Tetanus is caused by the bacteria Clostridium tetani which is found in soil. The bacteria produces spores which can then infect wounds and these spores produce a toxin that affects the nervous system. Horses are very susceptible to this disease and signs seen include muscle stiffness and spasms, respiratory failure and often death. It is a very difficult disease to treat so we recommend that every horse should be covered against tetanus.

2. Strangles
Strangles is a highly infectious bacterial disease. The bacteria infect and cause enlargement of the lymph nodes of the head and neck, especially those associated with the throat, hence the name ‘strangles’. It is easily spread from horse to horse via direct contact, and can also be carried between horses and properties by humans, tack, equipment, feed and water contaminated by nasal discharges from infected horses.

3. Equine herpes virus
A contagious disease, herpes virus 1 and 4, can cause respiratory disease, abortion and neurological disease. The biggest risk for abortion in mares is when pregnant mares are exposed to younger, infected horses (even over the fence), where mares change properties during pregnancy or come in contact with aborted material. Vaccination aids in controlling the disease and reduces the risk of abortion. 

4. Rotavirus
This is a virus that can cause profuse Diarrhea in foals younger than three months old. Foals also become depressed, fail to nurse and recumbent. Vaccination of mares provides passive immunity to the foals via the colostrum.

5. Salmonella
This is a bacterial disease caused by Salmonella typhimurium that can cause diarrhoea and colic in horses of all ages. It is highly contagious and difficult to treat. It is also zoonotic, which means that it is possible for you to get the disease off an infected horse.

Please call the clinic so that we can tailor a vaccination programme specifically for your horse.