Hereford Veterinary Clinic
(806) 364-1331

Vaccinations

Vaccines are preparations of killed microorganisms or living weakened microorganisms introduced into the body to produce immunity to a specific disease by causing the formation of antibodies.

Vaccines are very delicate compounds, which if handled or administered incorrectly will be ineffective or neutralized.

Vaccines are administered initially as a two-shot series and then annually or semiannually.

The vaccines and vaccine protocols listed below are tailored to our practice and geographic location and follow the guidelines of the AAEP.

CORE VACCINES: (those that should be given to all horses) 

Eastern & Western Encephalomyelitis: Encephalomyelitis is caused by a virus, which is transmitted by mosquitoes. The virus causes inflammation of the brain and spinal cord.  The vaccine is very effective against the disease. Horses should be vaccinated yearly in the spring, before the onset of mosquito season.

Tetanus Toxoid: Tetanus is a disease caused by a specific toxin of a bacteria (Clostridium tetani) which usually enters the body through wounds. It is characterized by spasmodic contractions and rigidity of some or all of the voluntary muscles (especially of the jaw, face and neck). The bacteria is found in horse manure. The vaccine is very effective and administered once yearly. The vaccine is boostered in case of laceration, surgery, or penetrating wounds.

Rabies: Rabies is a viral disease that infects the nervous system of  mammals. It is transmitted through contact with the saliva of infected animals. It is 100% fatal. The vaccine is given once yearly and is very effective.

West Nile Virus: West Nile virus is transmitted by mosquitos. The virus causes inflammation of the brain and spinal cord.  Horses should be vaccinated yearly in the spring, before the onset of mosquito season.

RISK-BASED VACCINES: (those that are given only to horses that have a significant risk of being exposed to the disease)

Rhinopneumonitis: Rhinopneumonitis is a herpes virus which causes respiratory infections, abortions, and inflammation of the spinal cord.  Pregnant mares should be vaccinated at 3, 5, 7 and 9 months from the breeding date.  Horses that are travelling to shows, races, sales, etc. should be vaccinated every 6 months.  The vaccine does not protect against the neurologic form of the disease.

Influenza: Influenza is a virus that causes high fever and respiratory infection.  Horses travelling to shows, sales, racing events, etc. should be vaccinated every 6 months.

Strangles: Strangles is a bacterial disease caused by Streptococcus equi.  It is highly contagious and causes the following signs: high fever, abscessed lymph nodes, and respiratory infection. Horses may develop guttural pouch infections, sinus infections, purpura hemorrhagic, laryngeal paralysis, and bastard strangles. There is an intranasal vaccine which is more effective than the intramuscular vaccine. Horses should be vaccinated every 6 months on premises where the disease is endemic.