Equine Vaccines

At Vaquero Equine Hospital, we believe in a proactive approach to horse health, and vaccination is a cornerstone of preventative care. Proper immunization protects your horse against a variety of infectious diseases, safeguarding their health and well-being. Serving Waco, McLennan County, and surrounding areas, our vaccination services are tailored to the specific needs of each horse, helping ensure they receive the highest level of care and protection.

Why Vaccines are Essential for Horses

Horses are naturally exposed to a variety of pathogens through daily interactions with other horses, wildlife, and environmental factors. Even a seemingly healthy horse can be susceptible to diseases that may lead to serious complications, long-term health issues, or even death. Vaccinations play a crucial role in preventing the spread of these diseases, especially for those that are highly contagious or prevalent in certain regions.

In addition to protecting individual horses, vaccination helps to create herd immunity, reducing the risk of outbreaks within the equine community. With annual and seasonal vaccination protocols, horse owners can prevent the spread of diseases such as West Nile Virus, Eastern and Western Equine Encephalomyelitis, Tetanus, and Rabies, which can all have severe impacts on horse health and require costly treatments.

Core and Risk-Based Vaccines

Vaccines for horses fall into two categories: core vaccines and risk-based vaccines.

Core Vaccines

Core vaccines are recommended for all horses, regardless of location or lifestyle, as they protect against diseases that pose a serious risk to equine health. The core vaccines include:

West Nile Virus (WNV): This mosquito-borne disease can cause neurological damage in horses. Vaccination greatly reduces the risk of infection.
Eastern and Western Equine Encephalomyelitis (EEE/WEE): These viruses are also transmitted by mosquitoes and affect the horse’s nervous system. Vaccination is essential for prevention.
Tetanus: Caused by bacteria in soil and manure, tetanus can enter the horse’s body through wounds and poses a high risk due to its potentially fatal effects on the nervous system.
Rabies: A fatal viral disease transmitted through bites from infected animals. Vaccination is the only effective preventive measure for this untreatable disease.

Risk-Based Vaccines

Risk-based vaccines are administered based on factors such as the horse’s lifestyle, travel patterns, and specific exposure risks. These vaccines include:

Equine Influenza Virus (EIV): Common among horses in boarding or competition environments, the flu is highly contagious. Vaccination is often recommended for horses that frequently come into contact with others.
Equine Herpesvirus (EHV): EHV can cause respiratory issues, neurological disease, and abortion in mares. Horses in close-contact environments or traveling frequently may benefit from EHV vaccination.
Strangles: Caused by a bacterial infection, strangles can spread quickly in horses and cause respiratory issues. Horses at high-risk for exposure may benefit from vaccination.
Potomac Horse Fever (PHF): PHF is spread through insects and affects the gastrointestinal tract. Vaccination may be advised in regions where PHF is common.

Customized Vaccination Plans

At Vaquero Equine Hospital, we work with each client to develop a customized vaccination plan suited to their horse’s specific needs and risk factors. Our veterinarians consider factors such as age, breed, geographic location, and lifestyle to determine the most effective immunization schedule. Regular booster shots are often necessary to maintain immunity, especially for horses that are highly active or frequently travel.

Vaccination Protocols and Timing

Most core vaccines are administered annually, but some may require semi-annual boosters, depending on the horse's lifestyle and exposure risks. Risk-based vaccines may be administered seasonally or as needed. During a vaccination appointment, we also conduct a general health assessment to ensure that your horse is in optimal health before receiving any immunizations.

Protecting Your Horse’s Health

Vaccinations are a vital part of your horse’s wellness plan, helping to prevent disease and reduce the risk of serious health issues. At Vaquero Equine Hospital, our commitment to equine health is reflected in our comprehensive vaccination services, designed to give owners peace of mind and protect their horses against preventable diseases. Contact us today to discuss your horse’s vaccination needs and schedule an appointment for a customized immunization plan.