Owning a horse can be a wonderful experience for both the human and animal. Many people love horses because they are beautiful, graceful and powerful creatures. Just like any other animal, horses require care if they become injured. Because they can run around outside, it is possible for them to be cut or scratched, damage their tendons or develop sore muscles.
1. Wounds
There are many different types of wounds that a horse may receive, from minor cuts and scratches to puncture wounds. Treating those injuries requires the owner to notice the issue and administer effective remedies to prevent infection or further damage from occurring. If the wound is beyond the ability of the owner, a veterinarian should be called in.
2. Tendon and Ligament Damage
Damage to the tendons and ligaments can occur when stress is placed on a joint. This usually happens when the horse is being exercised or ridden, as they may step wrong or be working too hard. The injuries can take a long time to heal and can be expensive to repair. It is a good idea to have horse insurance that covers care during this period.
3. Sore Muscles
A horse that has been overworked through exercise or made to carry excessive or unevenly distributed weight can develop sore muscles. It is important that all horses receive enough downtime between exercise and training sessions to recuperate. Otherwise, they may grow sore, which can increase the risk of other injuries. Do not push the horse past its limits and allow it to recover after a long session.
It is not always possible to prevent every injury from occurring. However, it is possible to reduce discomfort and aid in the healing process. Stay alert for any signs that something is causing pain in the horse and be on the lookout for injuries while grooming the animal.
