More than 8,100 rescued and retired horses have been vaccinated against dangerous diseases through the Unwanted Horse Veterinary Relief Campaign (UHVRC), a veterinary assistance program supported by the American Association of Equine Practitioners and Merck Animal Health.

Now in its third year running, the campaign has provided complimentary vaccinations to equine rescue and rehabilitation facilities in an effort to help restore and rehome American’s unwanted horses. More than 500 equine facilities have applied for vaccinations through the UHRVC since it began in 2009. Donated vaccinations have protected horses against diseases including West Nile virus, rabies, tetanus, rhinopneumonitis, and influenza.

Equine facilities are required to coordinate an application for the UHVRC with an AAEP-member veterinarian. Facilities must adhere to the AAEP’s Care Guidelines for Equine Rescue and Retirement Facilities and be registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit. To download an application and the AAEP Care Guidelines or to learn more about the UHVRC program, visit www.uhrvc.org.