Be Prepared:
It is easy to panic when an emergency arises. If you are prepared, you can help your horse as quickly and efficiently as possible. Make sure that you have your veterinarian’s information (name, phone number, emergency number) easily accessible on your horse’s stall, with you, and with your barn manager/farm owner. You may also want to consider assembling a first-aid kit.
What IS an emergency?
Some emergencies are more critical than others. It may be difficult for you to judge whether or not a situation with your horse is an emergency.
The following are emergencies seen commonly:
When in doubt, please call! Emergency veterinary practices are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They can help you decide whether an emergency visit is necessary or if monitoring your horse for a few hours/overnight is reasonable.
When you call the emergency line, make sure that you have the following information readily available:
While you are waiting:
When the vet arrives:
The vet will immediately assess the situation, typically starting with a physical exam. After his initial assessment, he will discuss any treatment decisions with you. He will leave you with a detailed plan so that you understand any further care that your horse may need.
TAKE HOME MESSAGE:
About the Author: Dr. Erin K. Dill received her bachelor of science degree from West Virginia University. From there, she went on to veterinary school at the University of Georgia. Dr. Dill graduated in the spring of 2007 and then completed an Equine internship at the University of Missouri. Her veterinary interests include lameness, sport horse medicine, neonatal care and dentistry. She has also been an avid rider and instructor throughout her college years in the hunter/jumper circuit. In her free time she enjoys riding her horse Enzo and spending time with her husband, Dr. Jeff Dill,their two dogs, Olive and Charlie, and their new addition Fiona the cat. Dr. Dill currently works with Henderson Veterinary Associates in Elizabethtown, PA.
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