In days gone by, many farmers bought vaccines at the feed store and immunized their own horses. Today, equine vaccination is a complicated business that requires input from a veterinarian.

There are many vaccines, and the ones right for your horse depend on where you live and on how, where and when you ride. All horses should receive the core vaccines for tetanus, encephalitis and rabies. Vaccination against encephalitis is especially important in the Southeast, where mosquitoes are year-round pests.

Other vaccinations for anthrax, influenza or other conditions might be needed on a horse-by-horse basis, depending on age, geographic location, and how much your horse travels or mingles with other horses. Your veterinarian can help sort it all out.

Remember that vaccines, like insurance, are a small price to pay for disease prevention and peace of mind.