Vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to protect horses from preventable diseases. Whether your horse is a companion, a show animal, or a working partner, keeping them up to date on vaccines helps ensure a long, healthy life. At Perry County Animal Clinic, we are committed to providing horse owners with the information and care needed to make the best decisions for herd health.

Why Vaccines Matter

Horses are exposed to viruses, bacteria, and parasites through travel, contact with other horses, or even the environment. Many equine diseases—such as tetanus, rabies, and West Nile virus—can be fatal if left untreated. Vaccination boosts your horse’s immune system and builds protection against these threats.

Core vs. Risk-Based Vaccines

The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) divides equine vaccines into two categories:

• Core Vaccines: Recommended for all horses regardless of location or lifestyle. These include:
  
  • Tetanus
    
  • Rabies
    
  • Eastern & Western Equine Encephalomyelitis (EEE/WEE)
    
  • West Nile Virus
    
• Risk-Based Vaccines: Given based on a horse’s environment, travel, or exposure. These include:
  
  • Equine Influenza
    
  • Equine Herpesvirus (Rhinopneumonitis)
    
  • Strangles
    
  • Potomac Horse Fever
    
  • Botulism
    

Your veterinarian can help determine which risk-based vaccines are right for your horse.

Timing and Schedules

Most vaccines are given annually, but some—such as influenza and herpesvirus—may require boosters every six months, especially for horses that travel or are in boarding facilities. Pregnant mares, foals, and older horses may also have specific vaccination schedules to ensure protection.

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Q&A: Equine Vaccines

Q: How early should foals start vaccinations?
Foals usually begin vaccines around 4–6 months of age, depending on the mare’s vaccination status. A series of boosters is required to build lasting immunity.

Q: Do older horses still need vaccines?
Yes. Aging horses may have weaker immune systems, making vaccines just as important—if not more—than when they were younger.

Q: Are vaccines safe for pregnant mares?
Absolutely. Certain vaccines, such as Equine Herpesvirus (EHV-1), are especially important for pregnant mares to help prevent abortion. Your veterinarian will guide you on the safest schedule.

Q: Can vaccines cause side effects?
Most horses tolerate vaccines well, though mild swelling at the injection site, fever, or soreness may occur. Severe reactions are rare, and your veterinarian can discuss how to minimize risks.

Q: Why can’t I just give vaccines myself?
While some vaccines are available to purchase, veterinary-administered vaccines ensure proper handling, dosing, and injection technique. Plus, your veterinarian keeps accurate health records and can tailor recommendations to your horse’s unique needs.

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Protect Your Horse with Perry County Animal Clinic

At Perry County Animal Clinic, we know how much you value your horses. Vaccination is one of the simplest yet most powerful tools to protect them from life-threatening diseases. Whether you’re managing a single horse or a large herd, our team is here to create a customized vaccination plan that works for your animals and your operation.

Perry County Animal Clinic
📍 366 S Main Street, Lobelville, TN 37097
📞 (931) 589-0005
🌐 perrycountyanimalclinic.com