Treating Minor Horse Wounds

Puncture Wounds

Puncture wounds can look small and seem harmless, but because of their depth and the potential for life-threatening infection, they should always be considered seriously. Punctures can occur anywhere on the body, including the sole of the hoof and coronet band along the top of the hoof. Because they are hard to clean out, harmful bacteria can grow deep within the tissue and cause infection. If you suspect a puncture wound on your horse, call your veterinarian. Because puncture wounds need to heal from the inside out, proper treatment is required to prevent the outside of the puncture from healing over, and possibly trapping bacteria within. A tetanus booster should be given to any horse that has had a puncture wound.

Bruising

Bruising or swelling under the skin can be caused when a horse bumps into a solid object like a fence post or stall door, or is kicked by another horse. Most bruises heal on their own. Cold water hosing of the affected area a few times of day can help to ease the horse's discomfort. Stone bruising on the soles of the hooves may indicate that a change in hoof trimming/shoeing methods is required.

Prevention

Once you have had the vet out or administered first aid, check your pastures and fences for anything that could have caused the injury. Sometimes horses have to be separated if they are fighting, to the point of hurting each other. This way you may be able to prevent future injuries.