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If you find your pony very lame then check for any obvious swellings,
wounds, or heat in his foot or leg. If the pony is too uncomfortable then
don't move him until the vet arrives.
Wounds are very common. If your pony has a wound anywhere near
a joint or tendon sheath then no matter how small the wound, call the
vet immediately as joint infections are very serious and need to be
recognised quickly.
All wounds should be kept clean - you should avoid using antiseptics as
these can actually damage tissue and slow down healing. Vets will often
use sterile fluids but warm water is also suitable.
Sometimes wounds on the legs are bandaged in order to keep them clean
and reduce swelling. When bandaging you must be careful not to pull
the bandaging material too tightly as this will be uncomfortable and may
actually cause damage. You should always be able to insert your finger
between the top of the bandage and the leg - if you can't do this then the
bandage is probably too tight.
Make sure your pony is up to date with his tetanus vaccinations - this is
VERY important as this bug is able to enter your pony's body through the
tiniest of wounds and the disease is usually fatal.
Ponies often step on things that they shouldn't such as nails. If you find
a nail in your pony's foot call the vet. Do not remove the nail before the
vet has examined the foot.
Any pony with a swollen, red or half shut eye should be checked by
a vet as soon as possible. Don't try to force your pony's eyelids open
to have a look as this may cause further damage.
If your pony is showing signs of colic such as excessive
rolling, kicking at his belly etc. then try to keep him
moving while waiting for the vet to arrive.
CONGRATULATIONS TO...
COMPETITION 10 WINNER
Rosie Metherell
A client of
Penbode Equine Vets
Welcome...
TO THE AUTUMN 2012
XLVETS EQUINE PONY PAGES
First aid in ponies...
from Carol Nelson BVM&S MRCVS, Thrums Veterinary Group
www.xlvets.co.uk