Vaccinations
Vaccines help to minimize the risk to your horse of infection and aid in the protection from certain infectious diseases. The diseases that we vaccinate most commonly against in South Florida are:
- Influenza (Flu)
- Equine Herpes Virus (Rhino)
- Eastern Encephalitis (EEE)
- Western Encephalitis (WEE)
- West Nile Virus (WNV)
- Rabies
- Strangles
- Tetanus.
We strongly encourage all horse owners to have their horses vaccinated in line with the AAEP (American Association of Equine Practitioners) guidelines.
Coggins Test
A Coggins test, also known as an Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA) test is a blood test that is done annually to detect antibodies to the Equine Infectious Anemia virus. Regular Coggins testing is required by the state of Florida and is necessary for horses travelling between states and for participation in horses shows.
Our in-house Coggins lab allow us to provide both routine and emergency (1-hour turnaround) tests.
Deworming
In an effort to reduce overuse and resistance to our most common de-worming products, we are trying to be more targeted in our approach to equine parasites. We do this by performing a fecal egg count. By identifying and counting the number of parasite eggs in your horses feces we can determine which (if any) de-wormer is going to be most appropriate to administer to your horse and when.
How To Test
Bring completed form along with one fecal ball to our clinic. Fecals must be dropped off during business hours (sample should not be more than 21 hours old at time of collection and may be refrigerated up to 48 hours.) Call to speak to one of your doctors if you have questions about deworming.
FAQ’s
1. Does my horse need the same vaccines as every other horse in the barn?
Your horse’s vaccination plan should reflect their individual needs. At a wellness visit, we can review their health and activities and recommend an appropriate plan.
2. How can a fecal egg count help guide my horse’s deworming plan?
A fecal egg count measures parasite eggs in a manure sample. The result helps us recommend a more targeted deworming plan for your horse.
3. If I deworm my horse twice a year, do I still need to do a fecal test?
Yes. Deworming twice a year doesn’t tell us how many parasite eggs your horse is shedding. A fecal egg count twice a year helps us tailor their deworming plan.
4. What is a Coggins test?
It is a blood test for antibodies to Equine Infectious Anemia, EIA. A current negative result is needed for travel and horse shows.
5. My horse’s Coggins has expired and we’re leaving for a show soon. Can you help?
Call our office as soon as possible. Our in-house lab offers routine Coggins testing and emergency testing when a fast turnaround is needed.
6. How quickly can your in-house lab provide Coggins results?
We offer an emergency Coggins testing option with a one-hour turnaround. Call us to discuss timing and availability for your horse.
7. Why choose an in-house Coggins lab?
When a show or a trip is coming up, timing matters. In-house testing gives our team an option to process urgent Coggins tests locally.