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Most horse owners are beginning to get their horses vaccinated for the 2015 show season. Most vaccinations are required when you are boarding your horse or frequently hauling to different locations where your horse comes into contact with many other horses. Vaccinations can protect your horse from potentially life threatening diseases, however, vaccinating your horse can come with some side effects. These side effects are generally mild but it is best as a horse owner to know what to expect.
Side effects from vaccines tend to come from the immune stimulation that they create when they are administered. Most side effects are mild but keep a close eye on your horse in case the reactions warrant a call to your vet. It is extremely important to understand that vaccines are designed to stimulate an immune reaction. Every horse is different so every response will be different as well.
Like humans, horses will experience mild, temporary side effects for a few hours after receiving an intramuscular vaccine. Some of these side effects include:
Muscle soreness or swelling at the injection site, Fatigue, Fever, Loss of appetite, Lack of energy
If you find that these symptoms last for more than 24 hours, contact your veterinarian. Other side effects that are NOT common or mild include:
Hives, Difficulty breathing, Colic, Collapse, Swelling at the injection site lasting more than several days
If your horse is showing any of these more serious signs, contact your veterinarian immediately as medical intervention could be needed.
Vaccinations are without a doubt, one of the best things you can do for your horse. Be aware of the mild side effects associated with vaccinations and the more serious side effects. For the best results, work with your veterinary when giving vaccinations rather than buying them from farm stores and administering them yourself.
