So taking one of my many trips to fleet farm, I came across a large bag in the Horse section. Being the curious girl I am, I of course snooped. The bag was a first aid kit and to my surprise and horror it was over $40.00! So I decided that I would see if I could create my own kit and save a little money.
After some research these were the things that should be in any good horse first aid kit:
1. A Bag!
Duh! So you should start out with finding a durable nylon bag or Tupperware container that can stand up to the dust and grime that comes along with any good barn!
2. Two to four quilted or padded wraps
The wraps can be used for pressure on an injury. It’s also extremely important that they are cleaned in case you need to use them on the injury itself for extra absorbency. That will prevent infection.
3. Gamgee, Gauze Diapers, Cotton or Other Absorbent Padding
In my research I found that diapers are the best in this case. Go to Target (my favorite store) and pick up a pack. They come in a plastic bag which keeps them clean to use for any wounds.
4. Antiseptic Wound Cleaner
You’ll find antiseptic wound cleaners such as Hibitane, Betadine or Novalsan scrubs are useful for washing skin infections, cuts and punctures. You can find them in the health section of any store (Wal-Mart or target). I also suggest calling your vet to see what they recommend.
5. Zinc Oxide Cream
This stuff works miracles! You can use zinc oxide to soothe sunburned noses, help clear up grease heel, and to protect and heal minor cuts and nicks. This will be in the baby care section of your local drug store.
6. Antiseptic Cream or Ointment
Nicks, cuts and scrapes can be encouraged to heal by keeping the skin moist and clean. There are TONS of these products out there. I recommend talking with your vet at your next appointment to choose the best one for you. Again it’s important to keep the ointment clean and free of any mess or debris.
7. Salts
Epsom salts are great for drawing out infection. This stuff works great when working with an abscess or minor cuts and scrapes. It’s cheap and can be purchased almost anywhere!
8. Cutter, Leatherman, Knife or Strong Scissors
This is essential for a good horse first aid kit. If you have wire fences they come in handy to free your four legged friend if they get entangled. They also come in handy if… gasp… you have to cut something!
9. Thermometer
From experience you should first, know a horse’s base temperature (99-101 is normal). Having the thermometer is the easiest way to see if your horse has an elevated temperature. An elevated temp is the number one sign that your horse is in distress. I’ve always used a mercury thermometer, which unfortunately can be harder to read. With either type include a string, clip or something to prevent it from “getting lost”.
10. BOOKS!
I recommend having a basic first aid book either in your kit or at your disposal. The first book on horses I received for my birthday was on First aid and I still have it. In a pinch a resource like this can really make a sticky situation, less sticky.
So if you’re up to it, putting together a first aid kit for your horse can be easy and inexpensive. Stopping at your local target, Wal-Mart or Fleet Farm can prepare you for any problems in your barn. Like always, talking to your vet before you start is always a great idea. An opinion is free so give your vet a call before you go shopping. I don’t know about you, but I feel prepared for anything with my very own First Aid kit!