Always on call.
If you own a horse long enough, sooner or later you are likely to confront a medical emergency. From lacerations to colic to foaling difficulties, there are many emergencies that a horse owner may encounter. You must know how to recognize serious problems and respond promptly, taking appropriate action while awaiting the arrival of your emergency veterinarian services.
Seek Emergency Veterinary Care For:
- Laceration (especially if actively bleeding)
- Uncontrollable bleeding
- Down and unable to rise
- Allergic reaction – breathing compromised / Labored breathing/ swollen muzzle or face /
- Fever
- Colic – Rolling / Pawing / Thrashing on the ground / Flank watching
- Acute diarrhea
- Not eating/drinking
- Eye pain – Swelling, squinting excessive tearing
- Swollen leg/Cellulitis
- Non-weight bearing lameness
- Choke – Feed substance coming from nostrils/ retching
- Foaling – Birth not proceeding normal or in a timely manner, foals unable to stand or nurse, retained placenta
Many accidents can be prevented by taking the time to evaluate your horse’s environment and removing potential hazards. Mentally rehearse your emergency action plan. In an emergency, time is critical. Don’t be concerned with overreacting or annoying your veterinarian. By acting quickly and promptly, you can minimize the consequences of an injury or illness.
Preparation
Preparation is vital when confronted with a medical emergency. NO matter the situation you may face mentally rehearse the steps you will take to avoid letting panic take control. Follow these guidelines from the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) to help you prepare for an equine emergency:
- Keep your animal urgent care number in your phone, including how practitioners can be reached after hours.
- Consult with your regular veterinarian regarding back-up or referring large animal emergency vet’s number in case you can’t reach your regular veterinarian quickly enough.
- Know in advance the most direct route to a horse emergency center in case you need to transport a horse.
- Store the names and phone numbers of nearby friends and neighbors who can assist you in an emergency while you wait for your veterinarian.
- Prepare a first aid kit and store in a clean, dry and readily accessible place. Make sure that family members and other users know where the kit is. Also keep a first aid kit in your horse trailer or towing vehicle and a pared down version to carry on trail.
Emergency Contacts
Prescott Animal Equine Hospital:
928-776-7669
Prescott Animal Control:
928-772-5180
Chino Valley Animal Control:
928-636-4223
Yavapai County Animal Control:
928-772-9267
First Aid Kit
First aid kits can be simple and elaborate. Here is a short list of essential items to have on hand:
- Cotton roll
- Cling wrap
- Vet wrap
- Gauze pads, in assorted sizes
- Sharp scissors
- Cup or container
- Rectal thermometer with string and clip attached
- Surgical scrub and antiseptic solution
- Latex gloves
- Saline solution
- Stethoscope
- Clippers
- Duct tape
- Zip ties
- Diaper
- Multipurpose pliers / handy man tool
- Fishing line
- Epson salt
- Electrolytes
- Hemostat
- 6-8” Garden Hose
- Fly repellant & ointment
- Prescription medication
- Bute & Banamine, BNP, TMZ, Azium
Explore Our Complete List of Veterinary Services in Prescott, AZ
What's Next
Call us or schedule an
appointment online.Meet with a doctor for
an initial exam.Put a plan together for
your pet.