It’s that time of year again, when the pastures turn green, the desert trails are calling, and all horses should be vaccinated. Maybe you are considering vaccinating your own horse this time around. We realize that it may be tempting to cut a few corners in an effort to save a few bucks. We would like you to weigh the following while you are making your decision.

First, not all vaccines are created equal. At East Valley Equine Practitioners, we are continually reviewing vaccine products in an attempt to use the most effective, least reactive product available. We are also very strict with the handling of our vaccines. If the vaccine becomes too warm or is no longer sterile, it can hurt rather than help your horse! Unfortunately, vaccine reactions do occur, but consider the following two things relating to this fact.

First, we know that they happen much more commonly when a vaccine is not given by a veterinarian. Whether it is due to problems with the vaccine or problems with the technique, it is a fact nonetheless. Second, we stand behind our vaccines and the vaccine companies stand behind us when we give a vaccine. This is not typically the case when given by someone other than a veterinarian. Some reactions can cost enough in veterinary care to pay for years of veterinary administered vaccines, not to mention causing undue pain and suffering.

Another consideration is that we strive to give you value when we vaccinate your horse by taking a temperature, weight, and checking the teeth before we vaccinate. We want to minimize the chance of vaccinating a sick horse, while adding valuable “baseline” information to our records. This baseline information can be used at future appointments to view trends in health that are not always obvious in one time exams. It also may prove to be good information to have in the event of an emergency. We may also see something while we are vaccinating that requires veterinary attention, something that may go unnoticed by untrained eyes. Additionally, this is the perfect time to ask those questions that you have been wanting answered.

We hope you consider this as a friendly reminder of a valuable service we bring to the relationship we have with you and your horse. Please call our office with any questions about vaccinating your horse, or visit our website, www.eastvalleyequine.com, regarding specific diseases wevaccinate against.