Deadly
but Preventable...... |
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Rabies
Rabies is caused by a
bite from an infected animal, most commonly bats, skunks and raccoons.
Combined with the horse’s inquisitive nature and the fact that bats,
skunks and raccoons like to harbor in barns, unvaccinated horses are at a
great risk.
Symptoms initially can range
from a subtle lameness to drooling, aggressive behavior and
unsteadiness. Symptoms are always progressive and will result in death.
Rabies can be transmitted from horse to human, often before symptoms
occur.
Rabies is a disease that is
easily prevented by annual vaccinations. Pregnant mares should be
boostered at 10 months gestation and foal vaccinations should begin at 2
months of age.
Tetanus
Tetanus (aka Lockjaw) is
caused by a toxin producing bacteria present in the intestinal tract and
manure of many animals and is also found in the soil where horses live.
Its spores can exist for years. The spores enter the body through
wounds, especially punctures and lacerations and the umbilicus of
newborn foals.
Symptoms include severe muscle
stiffness and hypersensitivity. As the disease progresses, muscles in
the jaw and face stiffen, preventing the animal from eating, drinking
and eventually breathing. More than 80% of the affected animals die.
Horses are extremely susceptible to this disease so ALL horses should be vaccinated annually against tetanus.
A tetanus booster should be given at the time of a penetrating injury
or surgery if the last vaccination was more than 3 months ago.
Additional boosters for pregnant mares should be given at 10 months
gestation and foals should be vaccinated beginning at 2 months of age. |
