limb at all, leave it where it is in case there is a fracture underneath the wound. If the horse is able to walk, very s
Sheet
Fact sheet
hoke First aid management of wounds
a relatively common condition seen in horses es and is typically caused by obstruction of the gus (food pipe) with food; occasionally a foreign be involved e.g. wood or plastic. Fortunately ses of choke resolveare quickly spontaneously Wounds veryand common injuries in equines and it cases in which the obstruction lasts for is vital for the horse owner tolonger be able to evaluate the minutes areseverity likely toofrequire assistance. a cut. veterinary Some wounds can be managed ortant to note that this is not the same as the without veterinary assistance but many will require atening condition in humans, whereItthe term professional attention. may be possible to provide refers to blockage of first the windpipe rather than the important aid before the vet arrives. agus. This difference means that unlike humans, Innocuous-looking wounds can be the most dangerous, with choke so canif still youbreathe. are in any doubt as to the significance of a wound it is best to contact your vet for advice.
What should I do if…. 1. the wound is
bleeding heavily?
Apply a dressing to the wound and apply several layers of cotton wool or gamgee, then bandage as tightly as possible. In an emergency, tail or exercise bandages can be used, but always put padding underneath them. If blood seeps through the bandage, apply more layers very firmly. Even arterial bleeding can usually be stemmed like this. For wounds in areas that can’t be bandaged, maintain firm hand pressure over the wound REGULAR DENTAL EXAMINATIONS AND using clean padding. Call the vet to attend as TREATMENT CAN REDUCE THE RISK OF CHOKE soon as possible to provide further treatment.
2. the horse is very lame? KEY POINTS • • • •
If the horse will not place any weight on the limb at all, leave it where it is in case there Don’t panic! Choke is rarely life-threatening and is a fracture underneath the wound. If the many cases will resolve spontaneously. horse is able to walk, very slowly move it to a clean yard or stable possible. Seek veterinary advice if the chokeiflasts more Your than should if the horse 30 minutesvet and whilealways waitingbe forcalled the vet remove allis obviously hasand a wound in case a food to prevent your lame horseand eating worsening joint or tendon sheath infection is present. the obstruction
Following episode is of choke it is worth monitoring there something 3. an your horse’s respiratory rate (normal in the wound?
