Lower Leg & Hoof Bandages On Horses (3 of 3)
Other Considerations For Lower Leg And Hoof Bandages
Because the foot and lower leg are the site of so many vital structures, any injury to the hoof, heel, coronary band or pastern should be evaluated by a veterinarian. Following are some additional considerations:
- - A horse with a condition requiring a hoof bandage should usually be confined to a stall or small run.
- - Hoof and lower leg injuries may bleed excessively because the area is highly vascular
- - A pressure bandage may be applied directly to the wound to control bleeding, but only for an hour or two
- - Use enough pressure to keep the bandage securely in place
- - Never wrap so tightly that you cannot easily slip a finger between the top of the bandage and the leg
- - Check the bandage several times a day to make sure it does not:
- Cut off circulation
- Constricting the coronary band or leg
- Create pressure sores
- Cause discomfort
- - Monitor and evaluate the horse carefully. Check the bandage and contact your veterinarian if...
- Swelling develops above the bandage
- Lameness increases
- The horse begins to chew at the bandage
- The horse has an elevated temperature
- The horse becomes depressed, irritable, or loses its appetite
- - For hoof injuries that require continuous soaking or medication, a foot bandage can be lined with...
- A heavy plastic bag
- Inner tubing
- Latex rubber folded around the hoof
- Ask your veterinarian for special instructions
- - A hoof boot may be used over the bandage to aid in extending wear and water resistance of the bandage
- - Change the hoof bandage as specified by your veterinarian or immediately if it becomes wet or soiled
If you have any further questions or concerns about lower leg or hoof bandaging techniques, contact your local equine veterinarian.
(Back to... Lower Leg & Hoof Bandages On Horses Part 1)
Horse Foot Casting
In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend that the foot be cast rather than bandaged. A cast, used short term, can speed healing by immobilizing and protecting delicate tissues, often reducing recovery times from months to weeks.
If you have any further questions or concerns about hoof or lower leg bandaging techniques, contact your local veterinarian.
(Back to... Lower Leg & Hoof Bandages On Horses Part 1)
Portions reprinted with permission from the American Association of Equine Practitioners.
