Because of their size, inquisitive nature, and well-developed flight responses, horses tend to be accident prone, making both minor and major wounds common occurrences. Effectively providing first aid to an injured horse requires having easy access to a fully-stocked first-aid kit. Kits can either be purchased pre-assembled or custom made. Up-to-date vaccination records for all horses in the barn should also be readily accessible, particularly the tetanus vaccine status.

Familiarity with your horse’s normal behavior and heart and respiratory rates can help you easily recognize when something is wrong. Consider taking an owner education seminar on wound management or first aid. Alternatively, there are many books available about equine first aid.