The Newfoundland Pony has traditionally been a very hardy animal, often receiving little preventative health care. However, due to the low population numbers, the optimal health of each and every pony is necessary to ensure the survival of the breed. Vaccinations A vaccination program is an important part of infectious disease prevention.
Vaccines increase an animal's immunity or resistance to a particular disease.
When faced with exposure to an infectious agent, a vaccinated animal can mount an immune response which may avoid succumbing to the disease or reduce the severity of the disease. The vaccine program recommended for Newfoundland Ponies as well as other equine breeds in Newfoundland include vaccinations against influenza, rhinopneumonitis and tetanus. Newfoundland Ponies residing outside of the province should be vaccinated according to disease prevalence in the particular geographic location. As well as a vaccination program, farm management to reduce exposure to infectious agents and maintain optimal general health play a major role in infectious disease prevention. The movement of horses from different sources also increases the spread of viruses.