There are many problems in a horse that can be classed as a veterinary emergency. Many of these are covered in more detail in other sections on our USEFUL INFORMATION page.

Here is a brief summary of what you should do in an emergency:

•  DON'T PANIC! Take a deep breath, step back and assess the situation

•  Find help - colleagues, family, friends and vets

•  Make the vet aware of the situation as soon as possible and discuss if other services are required, such as the fire department or police

• The vet will give you specific instructions regarding what first aid should be done, but this should ONLY be done if it is SAFE for you to do so

• If you have not done so already, and it is SAFE to do so, restrain the horse and make the surrounding area safe

• NEVER put yourself in danger.