Released June 25, 2009

MANHATTAN, Kan. – This summer’s warmer weather has horse owners out riding, tending to foals, heading to shows and other activities. In the midst of it all, a Kansas State University veterinarian is reminding owners to make sure their horses are vaccinated.

“Rabies, tetanus, western and eastern equine encephalomyelitis and West Nile Virus are the four core vaccines recommended for all horses by the American Association of Equine Practitioners (veterinarians),” said Larry Hollis, extension veterinarian with K-State Research and Extension.

Rabies vaccination is recommended because people commonly put their hands in horses’ mouths when placing the bit in their mouth. They could be exposed and not realize their horse had rabies if it died and they didn't have the brain sent in and tested for rabies.

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http://www.oznet.ksu.edu/ksrenews/story/briefs062509.aspx

Contact: Larry Hollis at 785-532-1246 or lhollis@ksu.edu.

Writer: Elaine Edwards, elainee@ksu.edu