No matter how much we try to prevent injuries or illnesses in our horses, accidents can still happen anywhere. Since bubble-wrapping them isn't an option, the next best step is creating a well-stocked equine first aid kit for your tack room, trailer and locker. Having these supplies on hand allows you to treat minor issues or stabilize more serious injuries while waiting for the vet. Being prepared can make all the difference when it comes to your horse’s health and safety.
You should have first aid kits accessible for both horses and humans. Equine Guelph, a division of the University of Guelph in Canada, has a list that covers what your first aid kit should be stocked with for horses. You can download the PDF for free from their website, but we'll go over just a few highlights that you might find at your local Tough1 dealer or pharmacy.
Tack Store Finds
- Recover Boot
- Tough Flex
- Bandage scissors/fetlock shears
- Hoof pick
- Height/weight tape
- Stall/standing bandages
Here are some options that you can find at your favorite corner pharmacy to fill out your own first aid kit.
Pharmacy Finds
- Rolls of gauze/gauze pads
- Wound dressings
- Use bandage wraps to keep in place
- Syringes
- 60 cc allows for wound flushing
- Multiple sizes
- Thermometer
- Tie a string to the end so you don't lose it
- Reserve separate thermometers for horses versus humans
- Stethoscope
- Alcohol wipes
- Iodine
- Helps to clean areas for medication prep
- Saline Solution
- Helps to flush eyes and wounds
- Antibiotic ointment
- Tweezers
- Rubber or latex gloves
Veterinarian-Approved
Discuss your first aid kit with your veterinarian to gather their input as to what you should include. Suppose you’re able to obtain a dose of Phenylbutazone ("bute") and/or flunixin meglumine ("Banamine"). In that case, those are good nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory pain relievers to have on hand for lameness, soreness or colic. Your veterinarian might have suggestions for what else you should include in your first aid kit specific to your horse and location.
Storing Your First Aid Kit
Once you’ve gathered all your supplies, you’ll want to be sure that you have everything in one place that’s easily accessible. You can use a repurposed toolbox or plastic container with a locking lid, or you can use a grooming tote with a zipper. You want to ensure the kit can be closed to keep dirt and varmints out to protect your investment.
Consider creating two kits: One for the barn and one for the trailer. This way there are no concerns of not having something in case of an emergency while on the road.
Be aware of the temperature in your area. If you live in an area that tends to get below freezing during the winter, or extremely hot during the summer, some of the contents of the kit can be compromised due to the extreme temperatures. While preparing your barn for the winter, gather all first aid items that can freeze and take them indoors—either to your home or in an insulated area—to prevent freezing.
