When it comes to first aid preparedness, humans aren’t the only ones to consider. From scrapes to sprains, horses need emergency care, too. Experienced trail riders recommend assembling equine-friendly first aid kits and carry them in a saddlebag or other appropriate pouch. Here’s what should go into a basic kit:
Vetwrap
Alcohol prep pads
Antibiotic ointment
Sterile gauze pads
Bandaging tape
Fine tooth comb
Scissors
Peroxide
Any group departing on a trail ride should have a first aid kit complete enough to address common minor injuries to riders, and small enough to fit in a saddlebag. Here is a list of kit contents for meeting basic first aid needs based on the Red Cross’s recommendations:
One box of adhesive bandages, various sizes
One 5" x 9" sterile dressing
One conforming gauze bandage roll
Two triangular bandages
Two 3 x 3 sterile gauze pads
Two 4 x 4 sterile gauze pads
One roll 3" cohesive bandage
Two germicidal hand wipes or waterless alcohol-based hand sanitizer
Antiseptic wipes
Medical-grade non-latex gloves
Adhesive tape, 2" wide
Anti-bacterial ointment
Cold pack
Small scissors
Tweezers
CPR breathing barrier, such as a face shield