WOUND CARE

Get the lowdown on how to treat common minor injuries and learn what to do for more serious ones.

- ELIZABETH MOYER

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE UNITED STATES PONY CLUBS

Our accident-prone horses often come up with all kinds of creative ways to scrape, cut, bump, bruise, and otherwise injure themselves. It's a good idea to be prepared for this.

Every horse owner should have a basic first-aid kit on hand for equine accidents and emergencies (see "First-Aid Kit Checklist," pg. 11). In addition to having a first-aid kit, you also need to know how to use the items in it correctly.

Talk to your vet for advice on products and treatment they recommend for minor wounds, and what to do in case of a serious injury and emergency. Make sure you know how to reach your vet in an emergency, and keep their number by the barn phone and stored in your cell phone, if you have one.

FIRST THINGS FIRST

When your horse greets you at the gate with a bleeding wound, stay calm and don't panic. It's sometimes easier said than done, but being calm, quiet, and in control will help your horse stay calm, too.

While you may be worried about your horse, you also need to keep human safety in mind. A horse that is injured or in pain may be upset and difficult to handle, which may mean you need help from an adult. In this situation, it's also a good idea to show the wound to an adult so they can help you treat it properly.

HOW SERIOUS IS IT?

Some wounds need to be treated by a vet. These include wounds on a leg, a joint, or an eye; those with major bleeding; deep wounds; puncture wounds; and gaping wounds that may need stitches. If you suspect that a wound needs stitches or veterinary attention, call the vet as soon as possible.