While a barn fire is uncommon, there is nothing more devastating-with more complicated consequences-than a horse’s becoming a burn victim. But it does happen. The first steps when confronted with a barn fire are obvious-remove the animal from the structure if possible. Once the horse is away from imminent danger, call your veterinarian. He or she can advise you on what to do (and what not to do) before medical help arrives.

For example, you might be instructed to remove any coverings-including halters and blankets-as these items can retain heat and promote continued heat damage. Adhered fabric should be cut at the margin of the adhered area because forceful removal will cause even more tissue damage. Although cooling the skin with room temperature water or saline is recommended for human patients (and applies to horses as well), burns result in a reduced ability to regulate body temperature. Thus, attempts should be made to keep the patient warm once the burning process has been stopped because heat loss can be significant, especially in smaller equine patients and during cold weather.

In addition to the skin damage, the most immediate considerations are the lungs and the kidneys. Burns to the airway or inhalation of hot gases can cause the airway to swell, which might require placement of a tube directly into the trachea. Damage to the lungs can result in constriction of bronchi and in fluid collection (pulmonary edema) requiring such supportive measures as bronchodilators, diuretic agents, and oxygen therapy. If these early complications are not rapidly treated, they can be fatal. Additionally, since the lungs are susceptible to secondary bacterial infection following smoke and heat exposure, broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy might be indicated.

Because of the massive tissue damage resulting from burns, the kidneys can be overwhelmed with the by-products of this damage. Early supportive therapy in the form of intravenous fluids and agents that promote diuresis is essential for maintaining kidney function and minimizing damage