Dr Michaela Harcourt BVetBio, BVSc, MVetClinStud, MVetSurg, DipACVS (LA) Registered specialist in Equine Surgery
Horses are notorious for getting themselves into sticky situations, regardless of how safe your paddocks and fences may be. From minor scrapes to more severe injuries, knowing when a wound requires veterinary attention is crucial for ensuring your horse’s health. Here’s a guide to the types of wounds and when to contact your vet.
Types of Wounds
- Abrasions/Grazes: These are superficial injuries where the skin is rubbed or scratched but doesn’t penetrate deeply. Typically, abrasions are minor and can often be treated with topical solutions without the need for veterinary intervention.
- Puncture Wounds: Caused by a sharp object like a stick or piece of wire, puncture wounds can appear small externally but may be quite deep. They carry a high risk of infection because it can be challenging to assess how deep the injury goes and whether any debris is still lodged inside.
- Lacerations and Tears: These are cuts or tears resulting from sharp or jagged objects. The severity of lacerations can vary significantly in size and depth, and they may involve underlying structures such as bones, tendons, or joints. A thorough assessment is essential to determine the best treatment.
- Contusions/Bruises: Often caused by blunt trauma, contusions may initially seem minor, but they can indicate more significant issues, especially if a horse gets a limb caught in wire or a fence. The blood supply to the area may be compromised, leading to more severe problems over time.
- Combination Wounds: Many injuries involve a combination of these types, further complicating assessment and treatment.
When to Contact Your Vet
You should reach out to your veterinarian if:
- The horse won’t let you assess the wound: If your horse is in pain or fearful, you may not be able to evaluate the injury properly.
- The wound is bleeding profusely: If there’s a steady stream of blood, or if you suspect significant blood loss, it’s time to call for help.
- The wound is large or deep: Significant injuries typically require professional care.
- The horse is lame: Lameness can indicate a serious underlying issue.
- The horse has been kicked: Kicks can cause hidden injuries that might not be immediately apparent.
- The wound is near a joint or tendon sheath (see circled areas in image): Injuries in these areas can be life-threatening without appropriate management, even if they appear minor on the surface.
- The wound isn’t healing or shows signs of infection: Increasing swelling, discharge, or a lack of improvement are red flags.
- You’re unsure what to do: When in doubt, it’s always best to consult a professional.
What You Can Do While Waiting for Your Vet
- Call Your Vet: Discuss the injury and provide details, such as when it occurred, its appearance, and any relevant medical history (like the horse’s tetanus vaccination status). This information helps the vet determine the urgency and best course of action.
- Control Bleeding: If the wound is bleeding, apply direct pressure to stop the bleeding. A clean towel or bandage can help if you lack standard materials.
- Move the Horse: If possible, relocate your horse to a clean, dry area away from the paddock to minimize further contamination.
- Clean the Wound: Gently clean the wound using clean drinking water or a diluted antiseptic solution. Applying a protective bandage may be appropriate.
- Confine the Horse: If you need to leave the horse for any period, it’s often best to keep them in a confined area like a stable or small yard.
What Your Vet Will Do When They Arrive
When your vet arrives, they will likely have more questions to ensure a thorough assessment. They will:
- Evaluate the Horse’s Condition: This includes checking vital signs like heart rate and temperature, and assessing for signs of pain or lameness.
- Examine the Wound: A thorough examination may require sedation to minimize discomfort for the horse.
- Perform Diagnostic Tests: X-rays, ultrasounds and other tests may be necessary to assess deeper structures, especially if the wound involves joints or tendons.
- Discuss Treatment Options: Based on their findings, the vet will outline potential treatment plans and management strategies.
