How to Treat Lacerations on a Horse

There is a saying barn dwellers use when a horse has an open wound, "If it's wet, make it dry. If it's dry, make it wet." Equine first aid isn't always that cut and dry. Whether your horse has fallen down, encountered a sharp object in her stall, had a run in with debris on the trail, or if you don't know what happened, a little TLC and some veterinary care will go a long way to her recovery. Read on to learn how to treat lacerations on a horse.

Things You'll Need

  • Clean towels
  • Gauze and vet wrap
  • Betadyne solution
  • Saline solution
  • Standing wraps
  • Ointment
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Instructions

    • 1

      Call your vet. In the case of most lacerations, the veterinarian should have a look at the horse's injuries. Superficial scrapes on the legs are probably a circumstance in which you won't need veterinary help. But if the wound is bloody, oozing or requires stitches it is advisable to call the vet. If the wounds are on the horse's chest, neck or face, definitely call the vet.

    • 2

      Understand that infection is highly likely since barns are home to animal waste, dirt and rodents in addition to horses. The doctor may advise the use of antibiotics to prevent lameness. He will also likely administer anti-inflammatory drugs to take down any swelling.

    • 3

      Cleanse the wound with saline solution if your horse is relatively calm. This will wash out any foreign objects that may have become stuck to the wound as well as wash away bacteria that may have built up. If saline solution is unavailable, use fresh water instead.

    • 4

      Use a disinfectant such as betadyne solution or iodine to kill any germs in the wound.

    • 5

      Apply pressure to the wound if it is still bleeding. Using a clean towel or gauze, gently press on the wound to stop the bleeding. If your horse fusses, let him be. It isn't worth injuring yourself too.

    • 6

      For wounds that are dry, use an antibacterial ointment like Furacin to keep the skin from becoming rigid and sore.

    • 7

      Wrap leg injuries with standing wraps or use gauze and vet wrap to keep the wound clean and keep flies away.