Horses can become ill or injured at any time, often without warning, so it is important that you have a well-stocked first aid kit to cover all emergencies.
Experts recommend you carry a small medical kit with you at all times and keep a larger one at home for all eventualities but what should they contain?
1. The box
All items stored in a first aid kit should be held in a secure container and written down in alphabetical order. Expiration dates should also be noted with equipment regularly checked and replaced as necessary.
2. Gauze
A vital component of any first aid box, make sure you have gauze wraps, squares and cotton sheet leg wraps as these will come in useful.
3. Bandaging
Include flannel wraps in case the knee needs additional support as well as unscented sanitary pads for use with open wounds and vet wrap for bandaging. A PVC pipe will also be useful if a splint is required.
4. Towels
Towels are extremely useful not only for cleaning up a horse’s wounds but also for yourself. Include a good supply and replace regularly, always cleaning after use.
5. Cold packs
Cold packs are essential for many treatments. Duct tape can be used to strap the cold pack to the horse without any problems so include this too and add a horse blanket to reduce the effects of shock and help maintain a healthy body temperature.
6. Thermometer and stethoscope
These vital pieces of equipment let you monitor your horse’s vitals. Test them regularly to make sure they work and always clean and sanitise them before and after each use.
7. Scissors
Scissors are probably the most important addition to any medical kit and you should include two pairs: one with a wide, blunt end and another with a small, sharp end.
8. Forceps and tweezers
Forceps and tweezers can be used to remove dangerous materials from your horse’s skin, hooves or body. You may also want to add a torch to improve visibility for this task and consider wire cutters which can be vital if your horse becomes tangled in fencing.
9. Medicines
A few basic medicines can also be included in your kit: sanitizers, ointments, pain relief medication, alcohol (disinfectant) and even insect repellents to prevent your horse from being bothered by pests.
10. Finishing touches
A few other pieces of equipment that can prove useful in your first aid box are:
- Hoof picks – to remove stones or other objects from hooves or shoes and prevent pain when walking
- Shoe puller – to lift or remove the shoe and prevent pain or discomfort
- Syringes – to administer medication or clean open wounds before dressing
Make sure each item is placed in your horse first aid kit carefully and check the condition of each item regularly for signs of damage. With all this at your disposal you’ll be able to give your horse the immediate care it needs before the vet arrives.
