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Prepared for an Equine Health Emergency
If you own horses long enough, sooner or later you are likely to confront
a medical emergency. From lacerations to colic to foaling difficulties,
there are many emergencies that a horse owner may encounter. You
must know how to recognize serious problems and respond promptly,
taking appropriate action while awaiting the arrival of your veterinarian.
Preparation
is vital when confronted with a medical emergency. No matter the situation
you may face, mentally rehearse the steps you will take to avoid
letting panic take control. Follow these guidelines from the American Association
of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) to help you prepare for an equine emergency:
- Keep your veterinarian’s number by each phone, including how the practitioner
can be reached after hours.
- Consult with your regular veterinarian regarding a back-up or referring
veterinarian’s number in case you cannot reach your regular veterinarian
quickly enough.
- Know in advance the most direct route to an equine surgery center
in case you need to transport the horse.
- Post the names and phone numbers of nearby friends and neighbors
who can assist you in an emergency while you wait for the veterinarian.
- Prepare a first aid kit and store it in a clean, dry, readily accessible
place. Make sure that family members and other barn
users know where the
kit is. Also keep a first aid kit in your horse trailer or
towing vehicle, and
a pared-down version to carry on the trail.
- First
aid kits can be simple or elaborate. Here is a short list of essential
items:
• Cotton roll
• Cling wrap
• Gauze pads, in assorted sizes
• Sharp scissors
• Cup or container
• Rectal thermometer with string and clip attached
• Surgical scrub and antiseptic solution
• Latex gloves
• Saline solution
• Stethoscope
• Clippers
Many
accidents can be prevented by taking the time to evaluate your horse’s environment and removing potential hazards. Mentally
rehearse your emergency action plan. In an emergency, time is critical.
Don’t be concerned with overreacting or annoying your veterinarian.
By acting quickly and promptly, you can minimize the consequences of
an injury or illness.
For more
information about emergency care, ask your equine veterinarian for
the “Emergency Care” brochure,
provided by the AAEP in partnership with Educational Partner Bayer
Animal Health. More information can also be obtained by visiting the
AAEP’s horse health web site, www.myHorseMatters.com.
Reprinted with permission from the American Association of Equine
Practitioners.
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