Equine vaccinations

Equine influenza

Equine influenza is a highly infectious respiratory virus. Although rarely fatal, it can cause fever, nasal discharge and coughing, and horses can take several months to recover. We encourage all our clients to vaccinate against equine influenza.

To be fully covered, a horse needs a primary course of three vaccinations followed by a yearly booster:

1. First vaccination
2. Second vaccination 21 to 92 days later (approximately four weeks after the first)
3. Third vaccination 150 to 215 days later (approximately five months after the second)
4. Then annually, within 365 days of the third vaccination

Equine influenza vaccination is required by many competitive organisations, for example British Showjumping, British Eventing, Showing, the Jockey Club and Endurance Riding, and at local level by area Pony Club and Riding Club competitions. Many livery yards and riding establishments require it too.

The FEI Veterinary Regulations require all horses to be vaccinated against equine influenza within SIX months of competing at an FEI event, having had the necessary primary course. This mainly affects international competitions, but may affect some British Eventing and British Showjumping competitions. Please check with your competition's governing body.

Tetanus

Tetanus (lockjaw) is a life-threatening bacterial infection that can enter your horse's bloodstream through any wound. It is caused by bacterial spores found in soil, is extremely painful and distressing, and treatment is rarely successful. Because so many horses are vaccinated we rarely see it these days, but any unvaccinated horse is at risk.

Tetanus vaccination can be given separately or combined with the influenza vaccine. After a primary course, boosters are only needed every other year.