Question and Answer with Dr. Skillman

Question: How often should my horse be seen by a veterinarian?

Answer from Dr. Skillman: We recommend an annual wellness exam, which can conveniently coincide with your horse’s annual booster vaccinations. Every horse should be vaccinated annually for Eastern and Western Encephalitis, Tetanus, Rabies and West Nile Virus. Additionally, we recommend Botulism, Strangles and the Potomac Horse Fever vaccines for horses living in Indiana. 

Since many diseases are spread by mosquitoes, we highly encourage scheduling this appointment before the summer months each year! Your horse’s age, job and travel plans will help determine any additional vaccines that may be needed. 

Some horses may require influenza and rhinopneumonitis boosters every six months. We don’t believe in a “one size fits all” approach, our goal is to customize a health plan that works for both the horse and owner.

Other services, such as dental exams, fecal testing or sheath cleaning, can be conveniently added to your horse’s annual wellness appointment. Important: To remain eligible for emergency care, it is the owner’s responsibility to have their horse seen annually for a non-emergency service! 

For the month of January, we are offering 5% off for wellness visits booked this month only – Take advantage of this offer and save!

Request an appointment at https://skillmanvet.com/contact/ or call our office (317) 829-6530.