Every horse owner should have a well-stocked first aid kit easily accessible in the event of an emergency. First, you'll want to purchase a large plastic bucket in which to keep all supplies. When putting together your kit or planning a vacation with your horse, makes sure you have all items listed below.

Hydrogen Peroxide
Use only to flush deep wounds or punctures.

Diluted Iodine Solution
This is also known as Betadine, and should be used to flush fresh wounds.

Neosporin and Nolvasan
These topical antiseptic ointments fight bacteria and promote healing. Use them twice daily after you have had a veterinarian look over the wound.

Topical Eye Ointment
If your horse injures his eye and a vet is not immediately available, this ointment will come in handy.

Injectable Sedative and Pain Killer
These will be useful for reluctant horses or in a situation such as colic. A small dose of each should be kept available at all times.

Sterile Gauze Sponges
These can be used when cleaning a wounded area with Betadine.

Sterile Gauze Roll and Self-Adhesive Tape
The tape, easily applied and removed, holds the gauze to the wound. Some recommended brands include Kling, Elastikon, Vet-Rap, and Flexus.

Other Items of Importance:

Rectal Thermometer
Easy-Boot
Hoof Pick
Fly Lotion
Wire Cutters
Twitch
Electrolytes
Flashlight
Stethoscope
Bandage Scissors (blunt-tipped)

— AE