Infectious diseases are those diseases that horses can get from each other, or via a vector, such as a mosquito, which may transmit the disease from horse to horse.

There are over 35 common infectious diseases which horses may get but many of these diseases can be prevented through good veterinary care and vaccination. Diseases which we commonly vaccinate to prevent include: tetanus, encephalitis, west nile virus, influenza, rhinopneumonitis, rabies and strangles.

Prevention is the key to infectious diseases but not all diseases are preventable. When prevention fails, we must utilize different methods to properly diagnose and then treat.

We offer routine blood screening for infectious disease including Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA), Equine Protozoal Myelitis (EPM) and other routine viral and bacterial infections. We have the ability to perform some blood work at our clinic as well as utilize several local and national laboratories to help us diagnose infectious diseases. We utilize other diagnostic methods and tools such as the endoscope and ultrasound to help guide our diagnostic approach.

If you are concerned that your horse may have an infectious disease or are concerned about preventing one, please call our office to speak with a veterinarian who can help you formulate the best plan for your horse.