Unvaccinated horses are at risk from Tetanus!

Following a recent death caused by this horrific disease, we feel that it is of paramount importance to highlight the devastating impact of this infection. The disease is caused by ‘clostridium tetani’ (a bacterial organism).

Clostridium tetani is a soil living bacteria which is present in the majority of environments with a higher concentration present on any substance made of rusty metal. It enters the body usually through an untreated wound and causes cell death and tissue destruction near to the wound, It also produces a toxin which initially travels through the blood stream then settles in all nerves but most obviously the cranial nerves of the head. The clinical signs include hyper-extension of the limbs, rigidity of the neck, retraction of the eye causing a visible third eyelid, forward pricking of the ears, drooling saliva and fixation of the jaw muscles hence the commonly known term ‘Lock-Jaw’. By the time these signs are apparent the chance of survival for the horse is very poor. The toxin irreversibly binds to the nerves and the only treatment is intensive nursing care and medical management until the toxin can be degraded. Most horse’s that reach this stage do not recover.

All horses are susceptible to infection by the bacteria but those who have been previously vaccinated and are ‘up to date’ with their tetanus cover form a healthy immune response stopping the organism before it has a chance to do serious damage. As such, Tetanus cover is vital for all horses regardless of age or breed. Complete Tetanus cover involves an initial course of two vaccinations 4-6 weeks apart followed by a booster at 1 year and then every other year after that. In line with the new legislation regarding micro-chipping all foals before 6 months of age; we would strongly recommend that a course of tetanus vaccines to be started prior to micro-chipping (the second tetanus vaccine may be given at the same time as the microchip).

The Park Veterinary Centre was founded in the 1890’s and continues to provide customers with professional, comprehensive equine and small animal veterinary care. The practice offers a wide range of services, including micro-chipping, mark up for passport and routine vaccinations. If you would like more information, to arrange a visit or to discuss micro-chip package discounts please call The Park Veterinary Centre Equine Office on 01923 229300.

Back to the top