The leaves on the aspens are changing and tomorrow is technically the first day of fall. This means it is time for fall vaccines. There are different vaccine schedules depending on the horse, how it is used, and the veterinarian's preference. Our practice usually does a 4 way (EEE/WEE/tetanus/west nile) and a flu/rhino vaccine in the spring, then a flu/rhino booster and rabies in the fall. For clients who only want to vaccinate once a year and do not travel with their horse much we will do all 3 at one time.
We recommend vaccinating for flu/rhino twice a year for those people who like to take their horses to shows, go to clinics, or trail ride in groups frequently. Influenza and rhinopneumonitis (herpes) are viruses that are easily transmissible between animals (for those of you who remember all the sick horses at the Rocky Mountain Horse Expo). Vaccination will not 100% prevent illness but it can greatly decrease the signs and duration.
If you have any questions about vaccines feel free to contact me. In the meantime enjoy the fall colors!
