How to Properly Wrap a Horse's Leg

Wrapping a horse's leg can reduce simple swelling, which is called "stocking up." It can also hold a wound dressing in place, reduce bleeding and provide support for injured structures. But used incorrectly, wrapping can damage fragile tendons.

Things You'll Need

  • Stretch Gauze
  • Elastic Wrap
  • Leg Quilts Or Roll Or Sheet Cotton Padding
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use a minimum of two layers of padding an inch thick around your horse's lower leg from the coronary band (just above the top of the hoof) to the knee.

    • 2

      Apply a layer of stretch gauze, wrapping from the outside to the inside of the leg with just enough pressure to hold padding in place. Start just above the ankle and make one full circle, then angle down around the pastern (back of ankle) and continue on up the leg. This will prevent the padding from slipping and moving.

    • 3

      Continue with the elastic, wrapping in the same manner as the gauze, only pull the elastic as you are coming around the front of the leg, keeping the pressure mainly on the front of the leg, then wrap the elastic around the back. Bandage should be just tight enough that you can slip one finger between the bandage and the horse's leg at any point around the top or bottom.

    • 4

      Anchor the elastic edge with adhesive or masking tape.