vaccinating a 23yr old - risky?

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Jericho

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Our very spritely 23 year old pony is likely to be doing PC camp this year but needs to be vaccinated against flu and tet. We took him on loan last year and his vacs lapsed about 5 years ago so need to start a new programme with him but am worried that at his age it could be risky? has anyone experienced any issues with vaccinating older horses? And does anyone know at what point they are considered 'covered'? I heard it was one week after the second vac?
 
It is extremely irresponsible to not vaccinate against tetanus. The risk is too high and resulting disease is devastating. Please please please at least continue with the tentanus boosters even without camp or competing.

With regards to the risks, some horses do react badly to flu vaccination but I would have thought it was less likely if he has been vaccinated without problems in the past. Also, as with all injections there is a small chance of introducing infection which could cause a localised abcess. Make sure you have the second jag well before camp then any problems will have time to subside.
 
You MUST do tetanus, not to do so would be neglect IMO. It doesnt cause any side effects.

I would also do the flu vacc, unless your horse has had any serious reactions in the past. Mine did but he was exceptional, Im talking long term serious illness which is extremely rare, not a localised reaction or lump in the neck etc which is still uncommon but might happen, to me that is minor and that wouldnt stop me doing it

(and altho the reactor chap doesnt have the flu vacc any more on vets advice, my other horse does still have it with no problem and both of them have tetanus vacc)

I dont think the age increases the risk especially, so get it done well in advance and hope they enjoy the PC camp!
 
Older horses just like humans have a higher risk if contracting flu virus. Also, if contracted they are likely to suffer more severe illness than fit healthy adult horses. For this reason flu vaccination is as important if not even more so in older equines.
 
Talk to your vet... It's the flu vaccine that can cause a reaction, and there are different makes.
I'd also discuss where he is injected - rump or neck invade of a reaction.
Also may be worth doing the tetanus as a priority and the flu jab a few weeks later.
My auntie lost her older horse following a flu jab reaction, so can understand your concerns.
 
If you don't vaccinate then the pony cannot go to camp. Or compete with the pony club for that matter. PC rules don't allow for exceptions.

23 is really not any great age for a pony. Do talk to your vet; but we routinely have 30+ ponies both competeing at at camp with no problems.
 
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