A rabies vaccine is used more and more often in horses. Rabies is a viral disease of warm-blooded mammals that is universally fatal once symptoms appear. Horses are frequently bitten on the nose due to their curiosity, so the site of infection is uncommonly close to the brain, where the virus causes its damage. Rabies vaccine in horses is given annually. Other diseases for which vaccines are available include Potomac Horse Fever and Equine Viral Arteritis.
Usage depends on risk of exposure.
New vaccines are constantly being developed. A veterinarian should provide advice on which ones are appropriate. Horses should be checked for internal parasites and dewormed as needed. A parasite burden places horses' health at risk and reduces their level of performance. A veterinarian can check a fecal sample and lay out a treatment program specific to the horse's activities.