Equine Tests and Vaccinations

February is the month when horse owners start getting things ready for the show season and for trail rides.  That incudes getting the tack ready (saddles, bridles, reins, blankets, etc.), checking the trailer lights, brakes, and flooring, getting a new Coggin’s Test run, and getting the horse(s) vaccinated for any diseases that may be threatening horses in this area.

I mentioned the trailer because that is a critical piece of equipment that should not be taken for granted.  Flooring will deteriorate whether it is wood or metal, wheel bearings need to be checked and greased, and brakes need to be checked to be sure that a) they work, and b) they aren’t too worn to stop the trailer.  Be sure to check the tires and be sure there are no cracks in the sidewalls and that there is enough tread, and check the hitch to make sure it functions properly.  It’s no fun to look in the left lane and see the trailer passing the truck.

Anyway, this is supposed to be more focused on vaccinations and Coggin’s tests.  February is when a lot of folks who show their horses and participate in trail rides like to get their Coggin’s tests done.  The Coggin’s test is performed to check horses for Equine Infectious Anemia, a disease which is deadly for horses.  Those that do survive become carriers of the disease.  The only tool available to keep this disease in check is to test and quarantine.  Cases are found each year, not many, but enough to cause horse owners to keep their guard up.

Horses that are transported off the farm must be accompanied by negative Coggin’s test paperwork that was conducted within the previous 12 months.  Most folks keep a notebook in the truck or trailer with this paperwork and other paperwork that is needed to check in at a trail ride or to gain admission to a show.  February works out to be a good month since the weather is generally too cold for a lot of riding, so there are not many events going on.  No one wants to wait for paperwork during the show or trail season, so getting this chore done early helps avoid unnecessary delays later on.

With that in mind, check with your county NC Cooperative Extension Agent to see if there are any Coggin's Clinics scheduled in the near future.  In many counties, Extension Livestock Agents work with local veterinarians to conduct these clinics for horse owners.  The test is conducted at just about cost, there is no trip fee charged, and vaccinations are offered at a reduced rate.  The basic vaccinations available include rabies, West Nile Virus, Eastern and Western Equine Encephalitis, tetanus, flu/Rhinovirus, and strangles.

If there is not a Coggin's Clinic scheduled nearby, contact your veterinarian to get a Coggin's test scheduled and get any needed vaccinations.  This is vital for your horse's health and to protect other folks' horses at trail rides and horse shows.