Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1401556
7 Winter/Fall 2021 | Equine Solutions Why get your vet involved in immunizations? Having your veterinarian involved in your horse's immunizations ensures that: The vaccine is not outdated The choice of vaccines is the most appropriate for your unique geographic location and competition pursuits When your vet administers immunizations, she/he also checks for anything off kilter with your horse through a visual and physical exam, which helps to identify subtle and not- so-subtle health problems The vaccine is sourced from a reputable outlet The vaccine has been handled properly and kept at proper temperatures during multiple transfers from manufacturer to distributor to the veterinarian's office to your horse You have access to veterinary counsel or help in the event of an adverse reaction, which is not offered by online pharmacies For some sensitive horses, the various vaccines can be separated into individual shots or they can be given at different times rather than immunizing with multiple vaccine products all at one vet visit. Another important reason for having your vet involved with your immunization program has to do with insurance. If your horse is insured and you administer any medications, including vaccines that induce a health problem or a life-threatening or fatal anaphylactic reaction, the insurance company might not honor your insurance claim. The bottom line Veterinarians and horse owners are fortunate that so many effective vaccines are available to combat a large number of infectious viral and bacterial diseases that could otherwise decimate the horse population. Most equine immunizations are relatively low in price, especially when compared to the cost of treating an infection or losing a horse to a fatal infectious disease. Discuss an appropriate vaccination program with your veterinarian and set up an immunization frequency that works for your particular situation. Prevention through immunization is a far better cost- saving strategy than not vaccinating. It also confers excellent health advantages for your horse, providing a higher quality of life and potentially extending the life of your beloved horse. This is an excerpt from the Equine Vaccine White Paper, for the full version of this white paper and more resources on equine vaccines, visit northamerica. covetrus.com/equine-vaccines.