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Assess your horse and the wound — if you see any of these points, contact your vet straight away:
- The wound is bleeding excessively (spurting, won’t stop or slow down). your vet may advise you to apply an emergency pressure bandage.
- Your horse is unable to stand fully on any of their legs or is lame.
- There’s a foreign body in the wound such as thorns, nails or splinters. Don’t remove these and wait for your vet to arrive as anything missed could cause infection.
- The wound is through the full thickness of the skin, meaning either side of the wound will move independently, or if you can see any structures, such as muscle or bone, underneath the skin.
- Any wound located in a high-risk area such as eyes, muzzle and over joints.
- Your horse is showing significant signs of infection, pain and distress.
- If your horse isn’t vaccinated against tetanus, you need to contact your vet even if the wound is minor.
Use the questions below to assess key factors about your horse's wound. Each question is designed to help you determine whether you need veterinary attention. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to call your vet for advice, many will be able to help you over the phone or review photos and videos.
Horse wound checker
Do you need to contact your vet?
This guide helps you decide what to do next. It doesn't replace veterinary advice. If you are unsure, contact your vet.
Outcome
Helpful links
Get in touch – we’re here to help
Our Horse Care and Welfare team are here to help and can offer you further advice with any questions you may have. Contact us on 02476 840517* or email welfare@bhs.org.uk. You can also get in touch with us via our social media channels.
Opening times are 8.35am–5pm from Monday — Thursday and 8.35am–3pm on Friday.
*Calls may be recorded for monitoring purposes.