While horse supplies cover the entire range, from grooming products to nutritional supplements, there is an essential element of horse supplies that you should not miss while exercising or riding your horse. You’ve probably guessed – it’s a first aid kit. First aid kits for horses are essential for all horse owners especially horse farms, as they could be the only one thing that could save a horse’s life.
Hollywood has often dramatized the situation in which the rider shoots his horse because he is injured. He probably hasn’t even thought about first aid kits for horses and doesn’t have one with him. Catherine Dickson, an essay editor at WriteAnyPapers, agrees “It makes no sense to drop a horse for a minor injury if it could get out of its agony without pulling the trigger. And you will know from experience that no matter how well planned your trip is, there are some things that will simply go wrong”. Accidents will happen! Carrying first aid kits always makes sense, it’s not paranoid, it’s getting ready. Your preparation could help prevent your trip from becoming a Hollywood drama!
Ensure Adequate Storage for Your Horse First Aid Kit
Your first aid kit should be stored in a container or bag that protects it from moisture and dirt, as this will stimulate the growth of bacteria. It would simply aggravate your horse’s infection if you used, for example, contaminated bandages. You will find that stores that sell horse supplies will carry items such as a zippered plastic bag that would be a suitable container. In addition to carrying items such as tools or grooming equipment, these are also good for storing and transporting your first aid items. In addition to preventing the entry of possible contaminants, you can also choose a container that can fit in your saddlebag.
Among the items you should include in your first aid kit is a disinfectant, as this is probably the most useful for most injuries on your horse. From scratches and minor abrasions to wounds, disinfectants are essential cleansers. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions, especially when using industrial qualities, as excessive use could dry your horse’s skin.
Prevention from Bacteria
Antiseptic scrubs and swabs are useful for disinfecting wounds in the absence of water. These are excellent substitutes for disinfectants, since they clean wounds with the same efficiency, but without the need for water. Ointments or wound powders are also worthy additions to your first aid kit. These can prevent the entry of new bacteria into the wound and accelerate the healing process. However, be sure to use ointments, powders and creams that have been approved by your veterinarian.
A fly repellent applied or sprayed on the wound greatly reduces the risks of infection or contamination. Wound dressings that come in sterile individual packages are good for covering wounds and promoting healing. It is important to keep in mind that you must have a supply of bandages in your first aid kit, or at least two with a wide range. They are good for stabilizing fractures, splints and for securing pads in bleeding wounds. Speaking of bleeding, cotton and gauze are essential to prevent excessive bleeding. And the salts are good for soaking sick hooves and feet.
Further Important Items for Your Horse First Aid Kit
In addition to these medications, there are some supplies that you can buy at equine stores and regular pharmacies. Petroleum jellies are good for rubbing, minor burns and skin sores. A thermometer is a smart investment and should be added to your first aid kit.
Scissors and tweezers are tools you should not forget to add to your first aid kit. In addition to being useful for cutting bandages, they are also perfect for removing splinters and stones that can get caught in your horse’s hooves.
Finally, remember that first aid kits for horses are only to provide assistance to horses in emergencies before a veterinarian arrives. These are only for preventive measures, which means they cannot cure your horse. It is still important to always call a veterinarian for assistance and treatment after applying first aid.
Author’s bio: David Hoang works as a vet. Besides, he is a volunteer so that he tries to cure animals for free or for very low price. David describes his expertise writing for WriteAnyPapers. This job allows him to be closer to his patients and clients.
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