Sick Nursing
Sadly, at some point in most horse’s lives, you will need to sick nurse your horse for various reasons. Below are some points to consider to help your horse heal as quickly as possible and stop any further complications.
All vet instructions must be written down and followed. If unsure ask your vet to clarify or, if you disagree, talk to your vet. Most are willing to hear what you say and give reason for what they have prescribed, and come to a solution which you are both happy with.
Isolation procedure
If the horse is infectious, they must be moved to an isolation stable that has no ventilation shared with another stable.
This stable must be thoroughly disinfected before another horse is allowed to go there. If they were in contact with others they must be isolated as well (how tricky is that?).
This is covered in more detail in a separate section.
Anyone entering the stable or handling the horse must wear isolation clothes, hair covering and boots that are used just in this area.
It is a good idea to have a bucket of strong disinfectant just outside the area to put boots in before going to other parts of the yard.
All equipment- grooming kit, mucking out tools etc are just kept to this horse.
All old feed, hay, bedding and dressings are disposed of in an area only used for that horse’s waste and it must be well fenced off.
Hands are thoroughly washed and disinfected after handling anything in the isolation area.
Everything is thoroughly disinfected once the horse is well, before being used by another horse. All muck removed or burnt.
RECORD KEEPING
Keep a record of all activity for example-
A- feed given and eaten.
B- poos and urine.
C- unusual behaviour.
D- temperature.
E- meds given.
This is essential in case someone else takes over the care, so that they can easily spot if the horse has taken a downward turn.
ADDITIONAL points
The horse should be on a shavings bed as this is less dusty and will not be eaten. If movement is limited, a deep litter system may be the best option.
Feed must be cut as exercise has stopped. The diet should be high fibre but contain essential vitamins and minerals to aid recovery. Your vet will give you the best advice as each horse and illness needs different nutrients.
The horse should be given soaked or steamed hay, not haylage, to keep dust to a minimum and reduce the energy intake.
Fuss and noise should be kept to a minimum with grooming just a quick brush over and picking out feet.
The horse should be kept warm with lightweight blankets. Two or three lightweights are better than a big heavy rug and can be changed more easily throughout the day.
Water should be refreshed regularly
If the horse has an eye injury, the stable should be kept as dark as possible.
If you need to bandage a leg, remember to bandage the opposite leg as well. Remove the bandages often, gently massaging the leg to increase circulation.
Final Thoughts
Correct sick nursing is very important and will aid your horse’s recovery.
Just imagine you have your horse’s ailment and how you would like to be treated, and translate that as best you can to your horse.