HEALTH & PREVENTATIVE CARE

VACCINATIONS

Equine Influenza and Tetanus

The most common diseases to vaccinate for in the UK are equine influenza and tetanus. Vaccination is the only effective method of prevention for these diseases, so keeping your horse up-to-date is essential.

Equine Herpesvirus (EHV)

Equine herpes viruses are a group of viruses that can cause contagious disease in horses. The two most significant types are Equine Herpes Virus 1 (EHV-1) and Equine Herpes Virus 4 (EHV-4). EHV-4 is associated with respiratory disease, whilst EHV-1 is more commonly associated with neurological disease and abortion. Pregnant mares have additional recommended vaccine requirements, including EHV. EHV vaccination is performed at months 5, 7 & 9 of gestation to reduce the risk of abortion. EHV vaccination is also recommended in some competition and racehorses. Our vets will be happy to discuss your specific circumstances and advise as to whether EHV vaccinations may be advisable for your horse.

Rotavirus

Rotavirus vaccination is also recommended for pregnant mares during months 8, 9 & 10 of gestation. This helps reduce rotavirus infection (a cause of diarrhoea) in foals via provision of antibodies in the mare’s colostrum.

WORMING

Parasitic worms can cause a variety of clinical signs. Severe infestations can be life-threatening, but even lower grade infections can lead to issues such as weight-loss and colic. A targeted and responsible approach to worming is important, given increasing levels of resistance to anthelmintics (‘wormers’).

Faecal egg counts can be performed in our in-house laboratory and are a quick and inexpensive way to monitor your horse’s worm levels and help prevent unnecessary over-worming. Worming treatments and programmes will be advised by our vets based on your horse’s individual requirements, time of year and worming history.

Passport & Microchipping

All horses and ponies are now legally required to be identified by both passport and microchip. We offer both thoroughbred (Weatherbys) and non-thoroughbred passports and microchips.