What is a horse's normal temperature? Pulse rate? How does his breath smell? What does his feces look like?

    Do you know the answers to these questions? If not, then you need to spend a little time with your horse so you will have this very important information when it is needed. In times of emergencies, it's good know certain statistics about your horse so you can quickly and accurately report them to your veterinarian. This will help him or her get a better idea of what is ailing your horse. 

    WV Horses Online along with WVHorses Yahoo Group have put together a list of information  you will need when speaking to your vet as well as tips on how to prepare yourself for emergencies. Hope you find them helpful. 

Be Prepared For Anything:

1. Keep a list of veterinarian names, numbers, and addresses next to your phone at all times.

2. Prepare a folder with each of your horses specific stats, such as weight, normal heart rate, temp, horse shoe size, worming schedule, current medications, vaccinations, etc. updated and ready for reference when the time is need. 

3. Invest in a First-Aid kit for both you and your horse. Make sure all meds are in good condition, stored properly, and most importantly, not expired. A good horse thermometer and a stethoscope will come in very handy. Learn how to use these tools! Don't just buy them and then look at them every once in a while. To see our recommendations for a good horse first-aid kit, visit the Horse & Human First Aid page.

Information You Will Need:

In the event of an emergency, remember to stay calm. A nervous human can be contagious to both horse and other humans. Concentrate on applying your First-Aid skills and gathering the information you will need when you speak to your veterinarian. 

1. Take the temperature of your horse.

2. Note manure and urine output if available. (Color Consistency, odor. etc.)

3. Note the mucus membrane color and capillary refill time. (Press down on gums. The color should refill immediately)

4. Smell your horses breath. I know it sounds gross, but this could give an indication of infection or digestive problems. 

5. Gently pull out skin on neck or elbow to measure elasticity. The skin should smooth out to normal. If not, then your horses is dehydrated and needs water and electrolytes.

6. Recognize your horses stance and posture. Is he favoring any part of his body. Do his muscles looks tense in certain areas.

7. Monitor your horses personality. Is he depressed? A little off? Acting funny? Horses walking in circles, looking/ biting, kicking at stomach, excessive rolling, can all be signs that something is wrong. In general, look for actions that are not normal for your horse.

8. Know what vaccines have been given and when, any medications your horses is on, the feed you have been giving him, and the types of plants he might have eaten. This is where that notebook comes in handy. :)

9. What other animals has your horse been exposed to.

10. Take a deep breath, organize your thoughts, and dial the phone. Remember, your horse needs you to be calm and collective. He needs you to know what he is feeling and be able to describe it the best you can to your vet. Since he can't very well tell the doctor his problems on his own you have to act as his liaison.

    Please get to know your horse intimately. Form a bond so that you will know when your horse is not acting like himself. If you see any symptoms that worry you, call your vet. Don't wait until it is too late. 

The Merck Veterinary Manual

The World's Most Trusted Source of Animal Care Information (Not to be used as a substitute for your vet.)

WV Horses Online - Please Read

This site was created to provide information, based on word of mouth, to those living in West Virginia from those living in West Virginia. Use information at your own discretion. This is not an official site for veterinarian information. Your vet should ALWAYS be consulted in case of emergency or question. WV Horses Online is not liable for any action taken by horse owner or handler.