Down and in Danger

Does the mere mention of a downed horse give you nightmares? If not, it should. In this article we'll help you be prepared if your down horse nightmare ever becomes reality.

- BY BARB CRABBE, DVM

Death, taxes, and a down horse. The first two are on top of almost everybody's list of things to avoid. If you're a horse person, number three ranks just about as high. A downed horse is one that's down on the ground and can't get up, usually because it's injured, ill, or simply stuck. No matter the reason, getting a downed horse back on its feet can be the stuff of nightmares. And everyone who owns a horse should know what steps to take if they ever find themselves dealing with a horse that's on the ground.

In this article, we'll look at the reasons a horse might go down and be unable to get up. Then we'll discuss the (sometimes hard) questions you'll need to ask and answer to make sure you keep your horse's best interests in mind as you work to get him up. Finally, we'll outline a seven-step plan to help you assess the situation and take the necessary actions.

Why Does a Horse Go Down?

There are so many reasons why you might find your horse down on the ground and unable to get up. Some are as simple as being cast against the wall of his stall, and others are much more complicated, like a neurological problem that has caused him to become paralyzed or a severe colic episode. One thing is certain, determining the certain reasons why your horse is down is essential. It's also true that the best solution for your horse doesn't always mean back on his feet. Sometimes, it means euthanasia.