Saddle Time After Shots: What Workload Is Acceptable?

News — Fri, 19 Mar 2021 17:47:31 +0000

Though horses tend to receive many more vaccinations than an average, healthy human, that doesn't mean their bodies are more adapted to dealing with them. Equus magazine recently took a look at the best recommendations for keeping horse comfortable after receiving a round of vaccinations.

Like human vaccines, many equine vaccinations are delivered intramuscularly. Though most horses will have a minimal reaction other than localized inflammation and soreness at the injection site, some horses may be stiff and unwilling to bend their neck.

While it's not recommended that the horse be worked intensely the day after he receives his shots, he can be ridden lightly the day of the vaccinations or the next day. This should make the sore muscles feel less stiff. After the first 48 hours, the horse can be returned to his normal exercise routine and intensity.

A horse should not be worked at all if he has significant swelling or stiffness, or if he has a fever. When in doubt, talk with the horse's treating veterinarian about what work, if any, they prefer the horse do.

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Saddle Time After Shots: What Workload Is Acceptable?