Tetanus
This life-threatening disease can affect humans and many domestic animals, although horses and humans are the most susceptible. It is caused by the spores of bacteria that are commonly found in the ground. These spores enter the animal through wounds and quickly multiply producing toxins which affect nerves and muscle. Treatment is difficult, expensive, and often unsuccessful.
Strangles
This is a respiratory disease caused by bacteria. It is highly contagious, especially in younger horses. Horses that get infected can become carriers and may continue to spread the infection over months or even years to other susceptible horses. Common symptoms include fever, swollen glands around the throat and lower jaw which can burst, producing thick yellow pus. Even mild cases may require isolation without work or training for three months.
To protect your horse against Tetanus and Strangles we recommend an initial dose of Equivac 2 in 1 (combined Tetanus/Strangles vaccine), followed not less than 2 weeks later by Equivac S (strangles only vaccine), and completed two weeks later by another booster of Equivac 2 in 1.
One year later a booster of Equivac 2 in 1 is required. Immunity is then maintained with yearly boosters of Equivac S.
If tetanus is a problem in the area, or there is a breakout this regime can be revised with the vet.
Equivac TAT: Tetanus anti-toxin for immediate short-term protection. Often given to unvaccinated horses when there is injury or your horse has surgery.
Equine Herpes Virus
This virus can cause nasal discharge, coughing, depression, abortion and neurological signs including hind limb paralysis. It is passed from horse-to-horse directly, or indirectly e.g. through buckets contaminated with infected nasal discharge. This is a highly contagious disease and outbreaks can occur in populations of unvaccinated horses.
We recommend vaccinating with Pneumequine. It requires two doses one month apart, maintained through annual booster vaccinations.
