Page 101 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

wounds with a dressing.

4 If applicable, arrange transport for the horse.
VetBooks.ir 5 Boil water and leave it to cool in a clean container.

Have a bridle or headcollar ready.
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7 Carry out any instructions given by the vet.

8 Check the vaccination and insurance status of the patient.

Protecting the wound

Once bleeding is under control, take steps to minimize further contamination or damage.
Straw, wood shavings, dust, mud and flies all introduce infection, which delays healing.

• If the horse has to be walked through a muddy gateway or transported in a vehicle,
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bandage a non-stick dressing and a pad of Gamgee over wounds below the knee or hock
first.
• Stand the horse on a clean, hard surface while preparing to treat the wound.

• Do not apply any topical medication, e.g. wound powder, spray or ointment at this

stage, especially if the wound is likely to be sutured (stitched). The one exception is a
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clear hydrogel preparation, e.g. Derma Gel or Intrasite which helps to rehydrate
devitalized tissue and to assist healing. Other preparations will interfere with the vet’s
inspection of the wound and can actually delay healing.

Managing a shocked horse

Following an accident, a horse may show signs of shock. These include:

• trembling

• fast, shallow breathing
• rapid and/or weak pulse

• pale mucous membranes

• a low body temperature

• anxiety or depression.

Consult your vet immediately. Shock usually indicates a serious injury or severe pain. While
waiting for the vet to arrive, move the horse to a warm stable with a deep, dry bed. Put on a
warm rug if the horse is cold.

Cleaning the wound