Having first aid kits on the yard for both horses and humans is really important - emergencies happen so quickly and being well prepared could help prevent hospital or veterinary intervention. It’s important to not only make sure you have the right equipment ready, but also to know how and when to use it.
We would recommend keeping your first aid kit inside an easy-to-recognise waterproof bag or container so that it’s easy to locate in an emergency. Store it in the tack room, off the floor and in an obvious, easy-to-reach place. If you are transporting your horse regularly we would recommend duplicating your kit and keeping it on the lorry.
Shop first aid supplies and first aid kits here.
What should be in my horse’s first aid kit?
The basic first aid kit should include:
A thermometer A roll of cotton wool (approx. 30cm wide) A roll of gamgee tissue/gauze Poultice (Animalintex or similar) 1 roll of adhesive bandage tape 2 rolls of self-adhesive stretch bandage (Vetwrap or similar) 2 multi-purpose dressings Antibacterial/antiseptic spray Sterile saline solution Antibacterial cleanser (Hibiscrub or similar) Tub of petroleum jelly (Vaseline) A pair of dressing scissors Wound powder A large syringe Tweezers A small plastic bowl Emergency contact phone numbers - vet, insurance company, owner details and transporters (if necessary)
