Thorough cleaning of wounds is essential if they are to heal well. A gentle trickle from a hose pipe is ideal as the cold water helps to constrict blood vessels, and the continuous water flow helps to remove dirt and congealed blood so that the wound can be examined and treated and the vet can decide whether to stitch.

If a cut is obviously in need of a stitch, simply hose it clean or cover and bandage lightly - and leave the rest to the vet. Wounds and their surrounding areas can be bathed gently in saline solution (1 heaped teaspoon of table salt to 1 pint of water). Once clean, simple superficial wounds may be protected with zinc and castor oil cream. Prodding and poking to determine the area and depth of wounds should not be done.

First aid's aim, apart from controlling bleeding, is to cover the wound to prevent further contamination.
Any suspicion of bits of metal or wood lodged under the skin is a matter for the vet; avoid pressure, leaving uncovered if in doubt. If away from home, the first-aider's main worry is knowing whether the horse should be taken to the transport or the transport brought to the horse;the guiding principle is knowing if the injury, especially if a suspected puncture or penetrating wound, is over the 'danger areas' of the legs. Unnecessary movement can make such injuries very serious.

Take care that the horse does not rub the injury during the journey home, especially if on those areas where bandaging is impracticable. Restrain the horse, removing the hay net if horse is unsettled. Check if tetanus protection is up-to-date.