Adult Horse Vaccines: Understanding Core and Risk-Based Vaccinations

Spring is a great time for horse owners to review their vaccination plan.

The American Association of Equine Practitioners, also known as AAEP, provides an Adult Horse Vaccination Chart that separates vaccines into two main categories: core vaccinations and risk-based vaccinations.

Core vaccinations are recommended for all horses because they protect against diseases that may be widespread, severe, contagious, legally required, or have public health importance. Risk-based vaccines depend on the individual horse, travel schedule, exposure risk, age, use, region, and overall health.

This is why horse vaccine plans should be developed with a veterinarian. A pasture companion, broodmare, show horse, trail horse, and frequently traveling performance horse may not all need the same exact vaccine plan.

Some factors your veterinarian may consider include:

• Your horse’s age and health history

• Travel schedule

• Exposure to other horses

• Regional disease risk

• Show or boarding requirements

• Pregnancy or breeding status

• Previous vaccine reactions

• Overall workload and lifestyle

The AAEP chart is a helpful resource for horse owners, but it is not a replacement for a veterinary recommendation based on your horse’s specific needs.

View the AAEP Adult Horse Vaccination Chart here:https://aaep.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Revised-Adult-Horse-Vaccine-Chart-FINAL-2026.pdf

Oliver Mobile Veterinary Services provides equine care throughout Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan.

To schedule, call 419.345.1093.