The Equestrian Insight

Maintaining your horse’s health year-round

Owning a horse is a rewarding experience, but it also comes with a great deal of responsibility. Ensuring your horse stays healthy requires a proactive approach to preventative care. By following a structured routine of vaccinations, deworming, and regular vet checks, you can keep your horse in optimal condition year-round. This guide will help you create a horse health checklist to maintain your equine companion’s well-being.

Vaccinations: Protecting Your Horse from Disease

Vaccinations are a crucial part of equine preventative care. They protect against potentially fatal diseases and help maintain herd immunity. Core vaccinations recommended by the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) include:

• Rabies – Protects against a fatal viral disease that affects the nervous system.
• Tetanus – Prevents a bacterial infection caused by wounds or punctures.
• West Nile Virus – Guards against a mosquito-borne illness affecting the nervous system.
• Eastern and Western Equine Encephalomyelitis (EEE/WEE) – Protects against mosquito-transmitted viruses that can cause severe neurological symptoms.

Your vet may also recommend risk-based vaccinations such as influenza, rhinopneumonitis, and strangles based on your horse’s lifestyle, location, and exposure risks.

Deworming: Preventing Parasites

Internal parasites can cause serious health issues, including colic, weight loss, and poor coat condition. A strategic deworming plan tailored to your horse’s needs is essential. Best practices include:

• Fecal Egg Counts – Regular testing to determine parasite load and tailor treatment accordingly so your horse doesn’t become dewormer resistant.
• Rotational Deworming vs. Targeted Deworming – Many veterinarians now recommend targeted deworming based on fecal egg counts rather than routine rotational deworming.
• Pasture Management – Practices such as manure removal, rotational grazing, and avoiding overgrazing can reduce parasite exposure.

Regular Vet Checks: Catching Health Issues Early

Routine veterinary visits allow for early detection of potential health concerns. A comprehensive vet check should include:

• Dental Exams – Horses require routine dental care to prevent sharp edges, discomfort, and feeding difficulties.
• Hoof Care – Regular farrier visits ensure proper hoof health and prevent lameness.
• Body Condition Scoring – Monitoring weight and overall condition to adjust nutrition and exercise as needed.
• Vaccination and Deworming Review – Keeping up with scheduled vaccinations and parasite control based on vet recommendations.

Create Your Own Horse Health Checklist

A structured approach to equine preventative care makes it easier to track important tasks throughout the year. Consider including:

• Daily: Check for injuries, monitor appetite, and observe behavior.
• Monthly: Assess body condition, inspect hooves, and clean tack.
• Seasonally: Schedule vet checkups, adjust diet for seasonal changes, and review vaccination schedules.
• Annually: Perform dental exams, administer core vaccines, and conduct a fecal egg count.

By following these essential equine preventative care steps, you’ll not only enhance your horse’s well-being but also strengthen your bond with your equine companion. A proactive approach today ensures a healthier, happier horse for years to come!