Tetanus is a life-threatening neurological disease of horses caused by a toxin. Clostridial bacteria, commonly found in soil, can infect your horse through wounds, the mouth and the intestines. Once infection is established the bacteria produce the deadly tetanus toxin which spreads around the body.

Signs of tetanus include: stiffness of the head and neck, over-reacting to stimulation, unsteady movement, increased breathing and general pain.

Treatment of tetanus is hit-and-miss, however vaccination is extremely effective in preventing the disease. The most commonly used tetanus vaccine is combined with the strangles vaccine and known as a 2 in 1. 

• Two initial intramuscular injections are given four weeks apart, followed by a booster 12 months later
• Boosters every 4 to 5 years will maintain protection or tetanus
• Foals should be vaccinated at 3 months of age and pregnant mares should be given a booster 4 weeks prior to foaling
• Non-vaccinated horses can be given a tetanus anti-toxin to provide immediate but short-term protection if required

Call us for expert advice on protecting your horses against this heartbreaking disease.