The toxin produced by the bacteria causes a rigid paralysis, characterized by muscle spasm, prolapse of third eyelid, stiff ears, raised tail head, and inability to swallow. A highly effective tetanus toxoid vaccine is available. Tetanus toxoid is usually given yearly and repeated if the horse has a wound. Caused by an anaerobic, spore forming bacteria, found in the soil and in feed material. The toxin produced by the botulism organism causes a flaccid paralysis.
Botulism is common in some regions of the country and extremely rare in others.
An effective vaccine is available and should be used in area where the disease occurs. Caused by a bacteria that invades the upper respiratory tract. It causes abscessation of the lymph nodes, usually in the area of the head and neck. In some animals, the infection may cause abscesses in the lung or gut. Most animals contract strangles as youngsters, and after recovery, are immune for many years.