POP QUIZ

pull tissues apart in small areas, which close back up almost immediately. Bacteria thrive in these types of wounds, which means serious infections can develop.

If you’ve determined the bite marks are just superficial, they don’t require much attention aside from a quick cleaning and perhaps a protective layer of ointment. There may be some bruising associated with the wounds but usually not enough call for ice or other therapy.

Suspected puncture wounds, no matter how small, are best examined by a veterinarian who can give you guidance on cleaning techniques that will keep infection at bay without interfering with healing. Of course, obvious lameness, large wounds or other signs of physical distress are also cause for a call to your veterinarian.

You’ll also want to give each horse another inspection the day after the fight. That’s when swelling or d. Each of these can be an indication of weakness and/or incoordination in a horse and each is typically tested during a veterinary neurologic exam. soreness can arise from an injury you missed or mistakenly decided was minor. Consult with your veterinarian before using bute or other medications to manage such developments.

Finally, consider what changes you can make in your herd dynamics to minimize the chance of recurring altercations. Adding or removing just one horse can affect all the relationships in a herd, and sometimes the situation never settles back down. Relocating a bully or a perpetual victim might not be logistically easy, but safety and harmony in your pasture is worth the effort.