With winter upon us Minnesota Valley Veterinary suggests that you have some essential things on hand in case of an emergency. There are times when the weather may prevent the vet from getting to your farm quickly during this time of the year. This is a guideline that can be used for most large animals. Please call for better instructions on when and what to give if an emergency comes up! (Minnesota Valley Veterinary (507) 665-2371 or e-mail mnvalleyvet@wmconnect.com.)
*Pain Relief/Fever Reducer:
-Banamine – 1cc per 100 lbs for horses, cattle camelids, goats, and sheep. Cattle, sheep and goats--administer in the muscle; Camelids--administer in the muscle or by mouth. Horses--administer orally or in the vein.
-Bute – 1-2 grams per 100 lb. Horses orally.
*Plenty of bandaging material:
-Vet-wrap
-Gauze squares
-Roll gauze
-Cotton padding or quilts
-Diaper or wet-to-dry bandage
-Clean, dry towels
-1% wound Iodine solution
*Topical antibiotic ointment
-Nitrofurazone, triple antibiotic. Neosporin, or Derma-clens
*Saline:
-This can be used to flush out wounds or eyes after injury.
*Thermometer:
-A regular human digital thermometer works great. All large animal temperatures are taken rectally. A small amount of Vaseline or lubricant may make this job easier.
-Normal temps are:
Horses 99-101 F
Cattle 100-102 F
Camelids 99-102 F
Sheep/Goats 101-103 F
*Blankets:
-Many animals get hypothermic (too cold) if they are very ill or going into shock. If you can help to keep their temperature closer to normal it can delay or reduce the chance of hypothermia. Horse and pony blankets will work on lots of animals. Large dog jackets work great for baby alpacas.
-Old milk jugs or containers that you can reseal also work to help treat hypothermia. Put hot water in the containers and pack around the animal.
WATCH OUT FOR WIND!
Horses are built to deal with all types of weather conditions. Most horses can remain comfortable even in below zero weather. They have a unique system that uses their thick winter coat to trap air next to the skin. The body then heats this layer of air to provide great insulation for the entire horse. However, a chilling winter wind can ruffle the horses’ coat therefore destroying that insulation layer. Most often a good, sturdy run-in shed or row of evergreens can provide a good windbreak, which will be enough protection for most winter days. If you choose to use a blanket make sure that it is thick enough for the weather conditions. Some thinner blankets may just flatten the hair and not be heavy enough to keep them warm. You also want to make sure that the blanket is not too tight. A tight blanket will not allow the horse to make their layer of air insulation. Another winter condition to watch out for is freezing rain. Again, the winter coat may get flattened and coated with ice, which destroys the heating system of the horse. The best thing for your horse is to provide adequate shelter, plenty of good quality hay, fresh water, and careful observation throughout the winter season.
Courtesy of Minnesota Valley Veterinary Service.