Equine Vaccinations

Infectious disease control programs and vaccination are important in maintaining the health of polo ponies.

The suggested vaccination schedules below are based on generally accepted veterinary practices as reported by the American Association of Equine Practitioners

Always consult your veterinarian regarding the medications and specific needs for a horse. Read and follow all label and product inserts before administering vaccines.

West Nile Virus

Annual booster after a primary series. In endemic areas, a booster as required or warranted due to local conditions conducive to disease risk. Vaccinate semi-annually or more frequently (every 4 months), depending on risk.

Tetanus toxoid

Booster at time of penetrating injury or surgery if last dose not administered within 6 months

Encephalomyelitis

Annual, spring. In endemic areas booster every 6 months.

Influenza

Annual with added boosters prior to likely exposure,

Rhinopneumonitis (EHV-1 and EHV-4)

• EHV-1 equine herpes virus type 1

Optional booster if risk is high every 3 to 4 months, semiannual up to annual.

Strangles

Optional: semi-annual if risk is high. Vaccines containing M-protein extract may be less reactive than whole-cell vaccines. Use when endemic conditions exist or risk is high. Foals as young as 6 weeks-of-age may safely receive the intranasal product. A third dose should be administered 2 to 4 weeks prior to weaning.

Rabies

Annual vaccination recommended in endemic areas. Do not use modified-live-virus vaccines in horses.

Potomac Horse Fever

Semi-annual booster during May to June in endemic areas.