Horse Health

Wound Management

Small puncture wound

Small puncture wound.

A wound is a break in the continuity of the skin. Wounds can range from shallow, partial thickness wounds that involve only the superficial layers, to full thickness wounds that reveal deeper tissues – perhaps muscle, tendon, ligament or bone.

The wound location and the tissues involved are more critical than the overall appearance of the wound. Your veterinary surgeon will usually need to see the wound to advise on the best course of treatment and possible complications.

Even tiny wounds close to a joint on the limb can be very serious. Despite their size, your vet may take these small wounds very seriously and may undertake further investigation.

It is essential that your horse is properly vaccinated against tetanus.

To see examples of how vets have treated wounds in horses, use the case study links below:

  • Download VetEq Note – Wound management for your horse
  • Download case study 1
  • Download case study 2

The wound location and the tissues involved are more critical than the overall appearance of the wound. Your veterinary surgeon will usually need to see the wound to advise.