Recommendations for certain vaccines are straightforward since they have stood the test of time. Tetanus is such an example. After proper initial immunization (2 injections a month apart) give an annual booster. Immunization for other diseases such as influenza is not that straightforward.

I am afraid that vaccines are big business and as such are produced by big companies. Your horse's vaccines are therefore involved in temporary shortages or may even be taken off the market as happened with the intranasal influenza vaccine. It was purchased by another company and has recently been reintroduced but everyone had to choose an alternative in the interim.

Every vaccine company claims theirs is new and improved and therefore the best now. The literature each company provides is overwhelming but luckily some independent studies have been done which give some indication of what is valuable. These recommendations may change as new research findings are presented. We will try to keep abreast of these recommendations so refer back to this site periodically. Politics come into play as well. The FEI has its own requirements so it is important to consult with us in that regard.

Flu-Rhino vaccine: At present we are recommending the Calvenza vaccine because the manufacturer offers a guarantee of its efficacy. If the horse is properly immunized ( 3 boosters 1 month apart) and still gets the flu then the company will cover all related veterinary costs for treatment up to $500!

Even though the company claims effectiveness for up to a year after proper initial vaccination we are still recommending twice yearly vaccination for show horses because a) the FEI requires it and b) we feel the rhinopneumonitis component (a herpes virus) requires a more intense program.

Our philosophy: We recommend only vaccinating against diseases prevalent in the area or for those diseases that may arrive and will cause severe morbidity or mortality if exposed.

If staying locally than we recommend vaccination for tetanus, influenza-rhinopneumonitis complex and West Nile

If traveling than the tetanus should include encephalitis. Rabies may be a consideration if present in that area.

Strangles vaccine: We have had inconsistency with the efficacy of this vaccine and find it may only be an aid in prevention. Isolation or quarantine is still the best protection. We recommend horses be boosted when going into a high risk situation such as a farm or area that has had it.

Vaccines we recommend for to the Fraser Valley. If traveling please read the travel recommendations at the end of the first table.