When you see blood on your horse, find where the blood is coming. Small amounts of blood can be from an insect. If it is from a cut check to see if a blood clot is already forming. If the blood is still flowing try to stop it by using pressure and a clean cloth or gauze pad. The deeper the wound the more pressure you should use.

Blood has two different colors and you should note the color, it is important information on how you proceed.

Bright red color with a pulse like flow means that the artery was cut. Apply pressure and call a vet ASAP.

If the blood is a darker color and flowing steadily you may be able to take care of it yourself. Apply pressure; wait for blood to stop before cleaning it and bandaging it. The blood usually clots on its own. When it does clean the wound and the area around it and then bandage it. If the bleeding does not stop within 15 to 30 minutes call a vet. As with all wounds they heal better when they are exposed to oxygen. If the area is in an area that is unlikely to get too dirty do not bandage it, just clean it daily and apply a coat of antibiotic ointment and let nature take its course. If the wound is on the legs close to the hoof, wrap it with gauze and then vet wrap. This must be cleaned every day; allowing air to get to the wound but without the flies. Since you will be changing it daily you will need more than one vet wrap in your first aide kit.

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