First aid essentials

 

Horse seem to have a great propensity for injuring themselves and others around them. A well-stocked and up-to-date equine first aid kit is therefore a basic essential for any yard, and should be readily at hand should any injury or emergency suddenly arise.

 

If your horse has received an injury, the first thing you must do is decide whether or not veterinary assistance is required. This depends on the type, size, depth, location and severity of the problem. However, for more minor injuries you should be able to provide some treatment yourself with the help of an equine first aid kit. Every horse owner should have the essential first aid items on hand, and must replenish every item after use or once past its sell-by date to avoid getting caught out in an emergency.

 

First aid supplies must be kept in a dry, clean and sturdy box or bag, which should be properly secured to ensure that dirt and dust cannot contaminate any of the contents. Kits should also be kept well organised and should contain a full checklist of items so the user can easily see what is present and what is missing. Below is a checklist of first aid essentials to help you make sure you have what you need.

 

Check list:

 

Thermometer

 

An elevated temperature is often one of the first signs that the horse is harbouring an illness or infection. As a rough guide, a horse’s normal temperature should be in the region of 98.5F to 101F (36.9C to 38.3C). A digital thermometer is preferable, as it will beep when peak temperature is reached and will save the last temperature taken, making it easier to record. Mercury thermometers work just as well, but care must be taken to ensure that it is not cracked, as this may cause an incorrect reading.

 

Antiseptic wound cleanser

 

Antiseptic wound cleansers are ideal for washing and cleaning skin infections, cuts and puncture wounds. Any first aid kit should include at least one type of antiseptic cleanser – common solutions include Hibiscrub (chlorhexidine) and Pevidine (povidone-iodine), which should be diluted with water before use in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

 

Wound powder, spray or cream

 

These are a must for keeping wounds clean and free from infection. There is a wide range of products on the market, from herbal to the more medicinal applications, but again, it is best to have two or more different types in your kit so as to be prepared for different situations. Antiseptic sprays are often brightly coloured, which may make the horse look unsightly but helps with targeting.

 

Cotton wool

 

At least one large roll of cotton wool is a must for any first aid kit – around 500g is best. Cotton wool is useful for cleaning wounds, mopping up and dabbing on powders, but remember that dry cotton wool is not suitable for applying directly to wounds or for use as padding under bandages, as it will stick.

 

Veterinary poultice and gamgee

 

Veterinary poultices can be used hot to increase the blood supply to the affected area and draw out infection, whilst also providing comforting warmth, or cold poultices for treating bruising, sprains and strains. Veterinary gamgee meanwhile provides a soft, low-adherent wound interface with excellent absorbency and insulating properties. Gamgee can be used to promote healing and protect wounds from external trauma, either used as a primary wound dressing or applied over a dressing to relieve pressure points.

 

Bandages

 

Sterile bandages are vital for keeping wound dressings in place, and every equine first aid kit should be stocked with a variety. Self-adhesive bandages are the most practical as they are easier to put in place. Human bandages should not be used for horses as they are difficult to keep in place.

 

Scissors

 

Scissors are essential. They should be sharp and round ended, and kept for use only with the first aid kit so that they don't become contaminated.

 

Other useful items

 

Other items that are useful for inclusion in a first aid kit include:

 

• A clean towel
• Thick, waterproof tape (such as duct tape)
• Baler twine
• Petroleum jelly (Vaseline)
• Epsom salts
• A hoof pick
• A torch
• Disposable gloves

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