Be Prepared for an Equine Health Emergency
If you own horses long enough, sooner or later you are likely to confront
a medical emergency.
From lacerations to colic to foaling difficulties, there are many emergencies
that a horse owner
may encounter. You must know how to recognize serious problems and respond
promptly,
taking appropriate action while awaiting the arrival of your veterinarian.
Preparation is vital when confronted with a medical emergency. No matter
the situation you
may face, mentally rehearse the steps you will take to avoid letting panic
take control. Follow
these guidelines from the American Association of Equine Practitioners
(AAEP) to help you
prepare for an equine emergency:
Keep your veterinarian’s
number by each phone, including how the practitioner can be
reached after hours.
Consult with your
regular veterinarian regarding a back-up or referring veterinarian’s
number in case you cannot reach your regular veterinarian quickly enough.
Know in advance the
most direct route to an equine surgery center in case you need to
transport the horse.
Post the names and
phone numbers of nearby friends and neighbors who can assist you
in an emergency while you wait for the veterinarian.
Prepare a first aid
kit and store it in a clean, dry, readily accessible place. Make sure
that
family members and other barn users know where the kit is. Also keep a
first aid kit in your
horse trailer or towing vehicle, and a pared-down version to carry on
the trail.
First aid kits can be simple or elaborate. Here is a short list of essential items:
• Cotton roll
• Cling wrap
• Gauze pads, in assorted sizes
• Sharp scissors
• Cup or container
• Rectal thermometer with string and clip attached
• Surgical scrub and antiseptic solution
• Latex gloves
• Saline solution
• Stethoscope
• Clippers
Many accidents can be prevented by taking the time to evaluate your horse’s
environment
and removing potential hazards. Mentally rehearse your emergency action
plan. In an
emergency, time is critical. Don’t be concerned with overreacting
or annoying your
veterinarian. By acting quickly and promptly, you can minimize the consequences
of an
injury or illness.
For more information about caring for the older horse, email
us to request a copy of the
“Emergency Care” brochure, provided by the American Association
of Equine Practitioners in
partnership with Educational Partner Bayer Animal Health. Additional information
is available
by visiting the AAEP’s horse health web site, www.myHorseMatters.com.
Reprinted with permission from the American Association of Equine Practitioners.