Seasonal Vaccination Guide for Horses: Preparing for Spring and Fall
At Raven Rock Large Animal Hospital, we understand that keeping your horse healthy and vibrant throughout the year requires proactive and thoughtful care. A cornerstone of this preventative health strategy is a well-planned vaccination schedule. Read through our guide on the differences between spring and fall immunizations, then contact us to ensure your horse is protected.
Understanding Core vs. Risk-Based Vaccines
We build every horse's vaccination plan around two categories: core and risk-based. Core vaccines are those recommended for every horse, every year, regardless of lifestyle. They protect against diseases with high rates of infection, severe symptoms, or those that can be transmitted to humans. Think of them as the essential foundation of your horse’s preventative care.
Targeting Spring-Specific Threats
Spring vaccinations are timed to prepare your horse for the surge of insects like mosquitoes that emerge in warmer weather. We focus on immunizing against mosquito-borne illnesses such as Eastern and Western Equine Encephalomyelitis and West Nile Virus. This is also the ideal time to administer the annual tetanus and rabies vaccines, ensuring protection before the active outdoor season begins.
Preparing for Fall and Winter Risks
With horses often spending more time in closer quarters with others during the cooler months, the risk of respiratory infections increases. We recommend boosters for equine influenza and equine herpesvirus (rhinopneumonitis), especially for horses that travel, show, or are housed in boarding facilities with new arrivals.
Creating a Custom Vaccination Schedule
While these seasonal guidelines are a strong starting point, every horse is an individual. Factors such as age, travel schedule, and interaction with other horses play a significant role in determining the most effective vaccination protocol. We always tailor our recommendations to fit the unique circumstances of your horse to ensure they receive precise and effective protection.
Staying current with spring and fall vaccinations is one of the most effective ways to safeguard your horse's long-term health and well-being. At Raven Rock Large Animal Hospital, we are dedicated to partnering with you to develop a customized health plan for your equine companion. Contact us to schedule a consultation or to review your horse's current vaccination schedule.