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Foals present an interesting problem when developing wellness programs. Information about the foal’s immune system is continually evolving. In light of new information, it has now become necessary to discuss what is practical for a vaccination program versus what might be ideal.

When the foal is born, its immune system can respond to vaccines, but antibodies the foal receives from the mare through colostrum (the first milk) interfere with that response. Therefore, it is necessary to wait until those antibody levels have diminished to a low level where they will not interfere. Research in this area is responsible for the changes in vaccination protocols. However, the resulting “ideal” protocol is complicated and requires at least nine veterinary visits. We strive to streamline that approach, simplifying the protocol while still protecting the foal, and we have seen no adverse effects of this approach. The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) website has a resource guide discussing the protocols indicated by research.

In the past, we began vaccinating foals at three months of age. As a result of the newer research, we have pushed the initial vaccinations forward to six months of age. Since foals have not previously been vaccinated for anything, they need booster vaccinations to stimulate a proper immune response.

Foals should be dewormed every month for the first 18 months to ensure that they will not develop a large burden of parasites, especially ascarids (roundworms). The first deworming should be done when the foal is 30 days old. It is best to start by using a product containing fenbendazole for the first five months. After that, discuss with your veterinarian an appropriate deworming schedule for your foal at the time of the initial vaccinations.