Page 94 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

movement of the flanks for one minute. The flanks and chest wall move up and outwards as

the horse breathes in. They will move down and in as the horse exhales. If the horse has
VetBooks.ir allergic respiratory disease, breathing out may occur in two stages as the abdominal wall is
used to squeeze air from the lungs. Each time the horse breathes in and out is counted as one

respiratory cycle.

Tip In cold weather you can see their breath as they breathe out.

Remember The resting respiratory rate of a normal horse is between 8 and 16 breaths per

minute.

How to take a urine sample

Most horses will urinate if put into a stable with a fresh straw bed. If a urine sample is

required, your vet may provide you with a sterile pot. Otherwise, you can collect it into a
clean container that has been thoroughly washed and dried. Take special care to ensure there

are no traces of any sugary substance. Stand quietly in the stable and as the horse starts to
pass urine, move slowly and quietly so you can collect a sample at arm’s length. It is a good
idea to wear disposable gloves to protect your hands.

FIRST AID

The management of the injured horse can be divided into two key areas:

• immediate first aid
• ongoing treatment of the injuries.

The first-aid kit

Every horse owner or yard should have a first-aid kit which contains the materials most

likely to be needed to treat an injury. It should be kept in a clean tin or plastic box with a
secure lid, preferably in a relatively dust-free area such as a cupboard. Items must be replaced

as they are used and so it is helpful to keep a list of contents attached to the inside of the lid.
It is also a good idea to have a list of useful telephone numbers, e.g. vet, horse transporters

etc., and to take the first-aid kit with you when you and your horses are travelling anywhere.

CONTENTS OF THE FIRST-AID KIT