First Aid Kits for Horses

A first aid kit for your horse is essential to have if you go for a lot of rides in the woods or on trails. By keeping some basic supplies on hand and having some basic knowledge, you can give your horse the care it needs when it needs it. But remember, your veterinarian should always be consulted if your horse needs medical care.

There are many types of first aid kits on the market, but it is unlikely you'll find one specifically for horses, so you will likely have to modify one that you buy, or build your own from scratch. Either way, make sure it contains the basics and put it in a place that is easily seen.

First of all, it is important to have some antibiotic cream. Usually any triple antibiotic cream will work. Some horses tend to get scratched, especially on trail rides or walking next to fences. Obviously this antibiotic cream should only be applied to small scratches. Make sure you keep it away from your horse’s eyes. For larger scratches, a veterinarian will likely need to suture them closed and put the horse on injectable antibiotics.

You will also need bandaging equipment. Vetwrap, tefla pads and medical porous tape are a good start. Make sure you buy the largest tefla pads you can find. These might be hard to find, but an army supply store usually has large field bandages that are a good size for a horse. Also, you'll need scissors to cut these bandages.

Antiseptic ointments or creams are also another must for a basic kit. It is always best to clean and apply antiseptic to wounds prior to applying antibiotic cream and bandaging them. Your veterinarian can advise you about the best ones to buy.

For long trail rides, it is usually good to prepare for occasional bee stings. Usually your veterinarian will provide you with some antihistamine if your horse is allergic to bee stings.

To round out your emergency kit, it is also a good idea to have towels, hoof trimmers, a hoof pick and a knife. A wire cutter is also a must in case your horse gets tangled in a fence.

By keeping some basic emergency supplies in a first aid kit, you can rapidly attend to your horse’s needs. Contact your veterinarian and he or she might be able to give you specific medication for your horse. For example if your horse is prone to allergies he can give you the medication to keep with you on trail rides.

Put all of your supplies in a plastic box or rucksack and remember to keep it in a highly visible place. Before starting out on your trail ride, transfer your supplies to your saddle bags so that you can take them with you. You don't want to be in an emergency and not know where your emergency kit is, the one you put all your hard work into creating.

Until next time,

Teia