Supported in partnership by the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) and Merck Animal Health, the Unwanted Horse Veterinary Relief Campaign (UHVRC) recently provided 3,200 doses of vaccines to protect horses in need from Eastern equine encephalitis, Western equine encephalitis, Equine rhinopneumonitis (EHV-1 and EHV-4), West Nile virus, equine influenza, tetanus, and rabies.

With its 2017 allotment, the UHVRC has delivered more than 25,000 doses of core vaccines to protect horses in need since its inception in 2009.

The Maine State Society for the Protection of Animals (MSSPA), which rehabilitates and rehomes horses seized by Maine law enforcement officials due to neglect or abuse, is among the 175 nonprofit equine rescue and retirement facilities to receive complimentary vaccines this year.

“The costs associated with the care of more than 50 equines sheltered here are tremendous,” said Meris Bickford, MSSPA CEO. “The generous donation of core vaccines made by Merck Animal Health and the AAEP will help us keep the animals in MSSPA barns healthy and the associated expenses under control