Vaccinations

Vaccination protocol:

Influenza: 

According to manufacturer guidelines, the vaccination protocol of the Equine Influenza vaccination brand we commonly use is:

  • 1st Equine Influenza vaccination
  • 2nd vaccination required from 4-6 weeks after the date of the 1st vaccination
  • 3rd vaccination required 5 months after the 2nd vaccination.

Vaccinations can be given outside of these ranges according to equestrian body regulations, however, owners should be aware that this administration is off license and could lead to reduced immunity.

Annual boosters are required thereafter with the last permissible day being the same date as the previous years vaccination. In light of the recent influenza outbreak, please check with the competition body re any recent updates in their vaccination requirements for competition entry.

The first vaccination can be given from 5 – 6 months of age. Vaccinations can be given at > 4 months of age if there is reduced colostrum intake, however, the primary course should be restarted at 5-6 months of age.

Horses cannot be vaccinated within 7 days prior to a competition. The onset of immunity following a primary course is 14 days, which is the accepted interval for horses to attend a competition/ event following their primary course. However, horses are eligible to compete 7 days after the date of the 2nd vaccination under BHA,FEI and Pony Club rules.

Horses competing under FEI rules must be vaccinated within 6 months and 21 days of entry to FEI stables. As previously stated horses can not be vaccinated within 7 days prior to a competition.

Tetanus:

A primary course of 2 vaccinations given 4 – 6 weeks apart is followed by a vaccination one year later. Boosters are required every other year thereafter. Foals can be vaccinated from 5 months of age.

Equine Herpes Virus:

EHV respiratory: A primary course of 2 vaccinations given 4 – 6 weeks apart is followed by boosters every 6 months thereafter. The first vaccination can be given from 5 months of age onwards.

EHV abortion: We recommend that pregnant mares are vaccinated at the 5th, 7th and 9th month of pregnancy.