How to Brace a Horse's Back Leg

The horse's legs are its life. Nature has designed the horse to be entirely dependent on its legs and feet to escape, and--in essence--survive. If an injury or damage happens to a horse's leg's or feet, the consequences are dire, and can cause the animal's death. If you suspect an injury to a horse's back leg, or see the leg being favored, it is helpful to know how to provide support until professional veterinary help can arrive.

Things You'll Need

  • Leg Wraps
  • Wrapping cotton
  • Liniment
  • Duct Tape
  • Veterinarian
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Instructions

    • 1

      Begin by contacting your vet. Unless you are absolutely certain that the injury is minor, you need to make arrangements to have your horse examined by a professional, preferably in the animal hospital where x-rays can be taken. A true, stiff supporting leg brace can only be made with a prescription from a veterinarian's office and by a custom brace and cast making company. Applying a support bandage is the best way to brace your horse's leg until the vet can determine the extent of the damage and if a custom leg brace is needed.

    • 2

      Tie the horse securely to a brace post, cross ties are not recommended. Make sure your horse is not in so much pain that it will kick you, or you may have to drug it or wait for the vet to arrive to help. If there is any question about safety, err on the side of caution.

    • 3

      Apply liniment to the leg in the sore spot. Take care to follow the directions on the label. If you liniment is the kind that cannot be covered, do not apply it.

    • 4

      Using the leg wrap, start two inches below the affected area and wrap upward. Always wrap from bottom to top. You want the bandage to be snug, but not so tight that it cuts off blood supply. A good way to help prevent this is to use wrapping cotton. This thick layer of cushion will help prevent circulation loss while allowing you to wrap the leg tight enough to provide support.

    • 5

      Apply duct tape to the top and the bottom of your bandage, so that it sticks to both the bandage and the horse's skin. This helps waterproof your bandage top and bottom, and also keeps the bandage from sliding. You can now wait for help from your vet, or carefully load your injured horse for a trip to the vet hospital.