Trailer First Aid Kits

Trailer First Aid Kits: Be Prepared for the Unexpected

by Susan Dudasik (from our December 2004 issue)

HAVING A well-supplied trailer first-aid kit, like this inexpensive one made from a plastic tool box, is a must for anyone who travels

Congratulations, you’ve done it. You finally got a nice mule, reliable truck and fancy trailer and now you’re ready to hit the road. You’ve packed plenty of feed and hay, your riding clothes and tack. You’ve thought of everything....or have you?

Each year thousands of horsemen load up their stock and head for shows, trail rides, cuttings and other events, but many forget to pack the most important item.....an emergency equine first-aid kit. Whenever equines are in the trailer there should be some type of emergency supplies on hand, even if you’re just going a few miles from home.

Making an emergency kit is simple and inexpensive. To start you’ll need something to put the supplies in. A large plastic tool or tackle box works great. Try to find one in a bright color so it’s easy to spot and clearly mark  First Aid on the outside. If you’re not sure what to pack, consult your vet; let him know what you are doing and he may be able to supply you with trial size tubes of ointments, eye wash and even bandaging material. Ask for a large syringe, which comes in handy when flushing cuts and a suture kit in case your mule needs stitches. Even if you can’t do it, maybe someone on the scene can. Have him suggest some type of tube electrolyte and pain medication.

Next, round up some small containers. Those used for rolls of 35mm film work well for storing ointments. Make sure the container is clean, then fill it from the larger container in your barn first-aid kit. Light affects some ointments, so put them in darker containers. Label and date the container, including what it’s used for. Film containers are also good for safety pins, matches, some spare change and extra Chicago screws. Reclosable plastic bags are also handy for holding smaller items like sponges or pre-moistened towels. Larger bags can keep things clean and organized.

The next step is to check out what you already have. Go through your barn first-aid kit and fill the smaller containers with petroleum jelly and wound ointment. Select a few rolls of elastic wrap, a pair of leg wraps and padding, some old towels of various sizes and don’t forget to toss in a hoof pick and hay string or two. If you trail ride in snake country, toss in two 10-12 inch pieces of rubber hose. If your mule is bitten on the nose or face, the swelling could block his nostrils. Use the hose to help keep them open.

If you have a friend in the medical profession he might help you obtain some non-stick pads, gauze and adhesive tape, since most hospitals rotate their stock and often discard outdated supplies. Also check out the travel-size products at your local drug store. Sometimes you can find trial-size containers of peroxide, disinfectant soap, or eye ointment. Now’s a good time to make, or restock, your kit, as many of the equine supply or drug stores will be holding year-end clearance sales. The dollar stores are also a great place to look for supplies like petroleum jelly, pre-moisten towelettes, small containers and even the main container.

Once your kit is made, leave it in the trailer and don’t forget to replace anything you remove. With luck, you will never need it. Be sure to up-date supplies on a six month or yearly basis. Check dates and replace used supplies before your active season begins.

If you live in cold country, remove the kit and water jug over winter to prevent freezing, but don’t forget to take it if you travel over winter.

Besides the first-aid kit, make sure there’s an extra halter and lead, flashlight, pair of wire cutters, a clean bucket, and at least five gallons of fresh water. This is the bare minimum. The kit is also a good place to keep copies of all brand inspection papers, coggins and registration papers. Depending on how often and how far you travel will determine what else you might take.

Checklist for Trailer First-Aid Kit

  • 2 leg wraps

  • bandaging material for under leg wraps

  • tape or pins to secure wrap

  • elastic wrap

  • scissors

  • sharp knife

  • wire cutters

  • flashlight and batteries

  • peroxide

  • sponge

  • disinfectant soap

  • suture kit

  • type of pain medication

  • tube of electrolytes

  • eye ointment

  • 12” length of hose for snake bite

  • clean towels

  • hoof pick

  • antiseptic ointment

  • trail boot

  • hay string

Cori Daniels