Wound first aid wrapped up

 arrive. If blood soaks through the first layer of dressing, don’t remove it – instead add further dressings over the top and apply firm pressure by hand or using a firmly applied bandage over a padding layer (e.g. gamgee).

Lacerations

A jagged, uneven and shallow tear to the skin is usually caused by knocking or becoming entangled with something blunt but hard such as a piece of rogue wood or metal. Although there may not be a profusion of blood there may be a risk of infection and it’s advisable to seek veterinary help promptly.

Abrasions

Abrasions can be the result of a fall, a struggle to get up or a consequence of breaking free from being trapped. While an abrasion may be only skin deep it may cover a large area and it’s crucial to clean the surface meticulously to prevent infection.

Unusual lumps and bumps

Don’t discount any new lumps, bumps or swellings as they may be a sign of a recent injury, bite, sting, bruise or haematoma. In some cases, they could be an indicator of something more sinister affecting tendons, ligaments or the horse’s skeletal frame. If you are worried it’s always best to speak to your vet for professional advice.

Wrapping up the injury

Some wounds may be better off bandaged while others will heal more effectively if left uncovered and some, given their position, may be impossible to bandage!

Superficial cuts, grazes and shallow wounds will usually heal more efficiently if they are kept clean and uncovered. There are many gels and creams available which can help to keep these wounds clean, provide the best environment for healing and deter flies - speak to your vet to find the best one for your horse.

High limb and torso wounds can be tricky to cover but often tend to heal well on their own given the greater circulation of blood at and above the heart level.

Lower limb wounds are more vulnerable to dirt and thus infection and the damage can be exacerbated by movement of the limb. On this basis wounds below the knee or hock are usually better off being bandaged.

Deep wounds affecting all the layers of the skin are at high risk of infection if left exposed. Such wounds may need stitching after which your vet will dress and bandage the limb carefully and show you how to manage the injury while it repairs.

Tetanus

Horses are very sensitive to developing tetanus and any kind of wound can be a way in for this serious and often fatal Infection.  It is essential that your horse's tetanus vaccination is up to date. If it has lapsed or the horse has a high-risk penetrating wound such as a nail in the foot you should speak to your vet who may advise a tetanus booster.

If you are in any doubt about the best way to manage a wound it is vital to speak to your vet as soon as possible. Even the smallest wound can cause disastrous consequences if it affects an underlying structure and is not correctly managed from the outset.

While a wound may initially look terrible, the body’s healing process is extraordinary in its capacity to transform severe flesh damage into a small scar in a matter of weeks. With a basic knowledge of wound first aid, owners can give the healing process the best start by providing the right emergency first aid treatment while the vet is on the way.