Guidelines For The Vaccination of Horses

These guidelines are intended to be a reference used by veterinarians utilizing vaccines in their respective practices. They are neither regulations nor directives and should not be interpreted as such. It is the responsibility of attending veterinarians, through an appropriate veterinarian-client-patient relationship, to utilize relevant information coupled with product availability to determine optimal health care programs for their patients. Based on the professional judgment of those involved with the development of these guidelines, the recommendations for vaccine administration in this document may differ from the manufacturer’s recommendation. However, it is incumbent on each individual practitioner to reach a decision on vaccine usage based on the circumstances of each unique situation and his or her professional experience.

Information provided in these guidelines addresses only those products licensed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for use in horses (including draft and pony breeds).  There are limited data regarding the use of vaccines in other equidae (i.e. asses, donkeys, mules, miniature horses, and zebra); vaccination of these animals is at the discretion of the attending veterinarian. 

• Principles of Vaccination
• Infectious Disease Control
• Vaccine Labeling
• Vaccine Technology
• Adverse Reactions
• Vaccination and Passive Transfer
• Vaccine Storage and Handling
• Core Vaccination Guidelines  (Tetanus, EEE/WEE, WNV and Rabies)
• Risk-Based Vaccination Guidelines (Anthrax, Botulism, EHV, EVA, Equine Influenza, Potomac Horse Fever, Rotaviral Diarrhea and Strangles)