CASTRATION WITHOUT TETANUS VACCINATION – RISK ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I understand that castration is a surgical procedure which carries a risk of complications, including infection.

I have been advised by the veterinary practice that tetanus is a serious and potentially fatal disease and that horses undergoing surgical procedures, including castration, are at risk of developing tetanus if they are not adequately vaccinated.

I understand that vaccination provides protection against tetanus, but that if I choose for my horse to undergo castration without being appropriately vaccinated against tetanus, I am choosing to accept an increased risk of my horse contracting tetanus following the procedure.

I understand that tetanus can cause severe illness, prolonged suffering and death, and that treatment of tetanus, should it occur, can be intensive, prolonged and may not be successful.

I have had the opportunity to discuss tetanus vaccination and the risks associated with proceeding without vaccination with the veterinary surgeon. I have been advised of the veterinary surgeon’s recommendation regarding tetanus vaccination.

Despite this advice, I have chosen to proceed with castration without my horse being appropriately vaccinated against tetanus and acknowledge that I am accepting the associated risk.

I understand that no veterinary procedure can be guaranteed to be free from complications and that choosing not to vaccinate may increase the risk of serious complications associated with tetanus.