Vaccinate after horse flu

RE: Vaccinate after horse flu

Wren — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 08:50:08 GMT

Really the only events that require proof of vaccination are BE (technically BS and BD too, though they are incredibly rarely checked - I have never had a passport checked when competing at either of these), FEI (checked every time), Riding Club area and national competitions (checked very rigorously) and Pony Club area and nationals. That's a very small percentage of horse shows!

RE: Vaccinate after horse flu

Seadna — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 08:45:55 GMT

This horse almost certainly picked it up at an event, which is pretty shoddy of the organisers. It should not have been allowed to compete in the first place without proof of a current vaccination. I feel like I should give them a call and be a bit stern with them..

RE: Vaccinate after horse flu

Wren — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 08:42:15 GMT

I'm embarrassed (or heartened!) to say that after 16 years of equine practice I've never knowingly seen a case of EI. Maybe I should be looking harder!

However I would go with Michael's advice. I tell clients there is no problem with them riding the same day, but ideally to avoid very strenuous exercise.

RE: Vaccinate after horse flu

Seadna — Tue, 22 Nov 2016 21:29:12 GMT

That's good enough for me, thanks!

RE: Vaccinate after horse flu

Michael Woodhouse — Tue, 22 Nov 2016 21:22:02 GMT

Mixed vet who vaccinates some horses view:

If the horse is now well then I'd merrily give the vaccine.

If the horse is well now then I have no fundamental reason why it cannot compete next weekend.

With modern flu vaccines I don't see horses off colour, if people ask I tell them to treat as normal unless horse not 100% then give it a day off. I maybe wouldn't plan to vaccinate before a planned big event the following day.