Home  Horses Strangles Vaccination
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Strangles is one of the most commonly diagnosed respiratory infections in horses. It is caused by the bacterium Streptococcus equi. This disease can have serious consequences and is extremely contagious. Once established in a horse population it can spread rapidly on and between yards. Infected horses can show a cough, swollen lymph nodes (glands), nasal discharge, a lack of appetite or just a fever. Most recover eventually but the disease can occasionally prove fatal.
Treatment is intensive and strict isolation procedures are necessary. Affected yards can be shut down for months in many cases and the bacterium can survive on pasture for several months.
Fortunately it is now possible to protect your horse from Strangles by vaccinating against it. A course of two injections four weeks apart are followed by a regular booster, usually every six months.
Discuss with the Vet the best approach for protecting all the horses in your yard from this terrible disease.
With free visits for three or more horses on any day, vaccination against Strangles is a very economical option.
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