How to Create an Annual Health Plan for Your Horse

Caring for a horse requires more than reacting to illness or injury—it’s about proactive, consistent management. Just like athletes, horses thrive when their health, nutrition, and performance are supported through regular care and monitoring. At Vaquero Equine Hospital in Waco, Texas, we believe every horse deserves a personalized annual health plan to ensure longevity, performance, and overall well-being. Here’s how to create one that works for you and your horse.

1. Start with a Comprehensive Veterinary Exam

Every annual plan begins with a thorough veterinary checkup. This exam helps establish a health baseline, allowing your vet to track changes over time. During the exam, your veterinarian will evaluate your horse’s heart, lungs, teeth, weight, joints, and coat condition, as well as review vaccination and deworming history. Regular checkups—ideally once or twice a year—are key to catching early signs of lameness, dental problems, or metabolic issues before they escalate.

2. Stay Up to Date on Vaccinations

Vaccinations are a cornerstone of preventive equine health. Your vet will recommend a tailored vaccination schedule based on your horse’s age, lifestyle, and exposure risk. In Texas, core vaccines typically include:

• Eastern and Western Equine Encephalomyelitis (EEE/WEE)

• West Nile Virus

• Tetanus

• Rabies

3. Maintain a Strategic Deworming Schedule

Parasite control is another essential component of your annual plan. Instead of following outdated “every two months” schedules, modern deworming focuses on targeted treatment based on fecal egg counts. Your veterinarian will perform periodic fecal tests to determine parasite levels and recommend dewormers only when needed. This evidence-based approach prevents resistance, saves money, and keeps your horse’s digestive system healthy.

4. Prioritize Dental Care

Horses rely on healthy teeth to chew, digest, and maintain weight properly. Uneven wear or sharp points can cause pain, bit resistance, and poor feed utilization. Most horses should receive a dental exam and floating at least once a year. Performance horses or older horses may need more frequent care. Regular dental maintenance ensures comfort, balanced nutrition, and optimal performance.

5. Monitor Nutrition and Weight Year-Round

A balanced diet is the foundation of equine health. Work with your veterinarian to assess your horse’s body condition score (BCS) and create a nutrition plan that meets their specific needs—whether they’re a performance athlete, pasture companion, or senior horse. Regularly re-evaluate feed quality, hay type, and supplements throughout the year, especially when pasture conditions or activity levels change. Consistent weight tracking prevents both obesity and malnutrition, which can lead to serious metabolic problems.

6. Develop a Farrier and Hoof Care Routine

Healthy hooves mean a healthy horse. Schedule farrier visits every 6 to 8 weeks to maintain proper balance, prevent cracking, and address any conformation issues. Regular trimming and shoeing, combined with quality nutrition, reduce strain on joints and help prevent lameness. Communication between your farrier and veterinarian ensures your horse’s hoof care supports their overall health and performance.

7. Include Exercise, Conditioning, and Rest

An annual health plan should include structured exercise and rest cycles. Horses need regular movement for circulation, muscle tone, and mental well-being. Whether your horse competes or enjoys light riding, establish a balanced schedule of work and recovery to prevent overuse injuries. If your horse competes seasonally, include pre-season conditioning and post-season recovery periods as part of their yearly wellness program.

8. Schedule Seasonal Health Checks

Texas weather can be unpredictable, and seasonal changes affect your horse’s health. Schedule wellness checks in the spring and fall to adjust nutrition, parasite control, and vaccination timing. In hot months, monitor hydration and heat stress, while in cooler weather, keep an eye on joint stiffness and coat condition.

Partner with Vaquero Equine Hospital for Complete Care

Creating and following an annual health plan for your horse is the best way to ensure long-term wellness, peak performance, and peace of mind. At Vaquero Equine Hospital, our veterinarians work closely with owners to design customized care schedules that fit each horse’s unique needs. From preventive medicine to advanced diagnostics, our team provides the expertise and dedication your horse deserves.

Contact Vaquero Equine Hospital in Waco, Texas, today to schedule your horse’s annual exam and start building a personalized health plan that keeps them healthy, strong, and ready for the year ahead.