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Bathing
Use a clean swab with warm water (containing a small amount of a suitable cleanser or antiseptic) to gently cleanse a wound. If several swabs are required, each should be used once and then discarded.
Cold hosing
Apply a steady stream of cold water, washed (for approximately 15 minutes at a time) over an injury, to soothe and reduce swelling.
Poulticing
Apply a poultice (hot or cold) to aid treatment. Cold poultices are used to reduce inflammation caused by kicks or knocks. Hot (but comfortable to the touch) poultices are used to increase blood supply to the injury and to help to draw out any infection that may be present.
Types of bandages and padding
Surgical or self-fixing disposable bandages are useful items in the first aid box. They are flexible and can be applied easily to provide support or hold dressings in place on the legs and even on areas (such as joints and hooves) that are more difficult to bandage.
In addition to bandaging the lame limb, an exercise or stable bandage is often applied to the opposing, weight-bearing leg, to provide additional support.
Padding is essential beneath all bandages, to even out and reduce pressure and to provide protection. Gamgee, fibregee and leg wraps are all acceptable forms of protection for use under bandages.
Bandaging cautions
Bandages must be fitted correctly, to avoid causing permanent damage. They must be applied over the padding, with an even pressure used throughout. There should be no wrinkles in either the bandage or the padding. Care also needs to be taken when finishing the bandage so that it fastens on the outer side of the leg, with the fastening being secure but no tighter than the bandage itself.
Bandages that are either too tight or are left on too long (or where insufficient padding has been used) can cause permanent hair loss or white hairs on the legs. Furthermore, secondary injury to the tendons can occur if bandages or their ties are too tight or if pressure points are caused (from a twist in the bandage or a knot positioned at the back of the leg). Inflammation and bruising of the cannon bone can also result. Loose or poorly applied bandages can be dangerous and cause problems if they slip down.
When removing bandages the horse’s leg should be rubbed to encourage circulation.
Taking a horse’s temperature and pulse
A horse’s normal temperature is 38°C, though this may vary by half a degree either way. The horse’s temperature is taken using an equine thermometer (modern digital versions are preferable to mercury-based ones). Care must be taken when performing this procedure. Ideally, the horse should be held by an assistant. After being lubricated, the thermometer should be partially inserted into the horse’s rectum and tilted slightly so that it rests against the rectal wall. The thermometer should be held in place for a full minute before being removed and wiped clean. The reading may then be viewed.