04/17/08 Clean gently

The sight of an open wound on a horse is always a concern. I'm Jeff Keane; I'll be right back after this to discuss one of the first steps to start the healing process. It sure seems like horses can find some way to hurt themselves no matter where they're at. With range horses, a wound can be a couple of days old before you get a chance to see it. First of all, you always feel a little better if it's not the best horse in the bunch. Usually one of the first chores to start a wound healing is getting it cleaned up. An article in the Paint Horse Connection by Chandra Andrews explains the right water pressure can make a big difference in cleansing the wound. A water hose with a spray nozzle tends to damage tissue, drive water into the tissue, and force bacteria deeper into the injury. Veterinary studies have shown cleansing pressure of about seven psi normally produces the best results. This pressure can be attained using a 35 cc syringe and a 19-gauge needle. Spray bottles will produce about 10 to 15 psi, but this pressure is actually 20 per cent less effective than the seven psi. A saline solution is best for wound cleansing, but normal water will work. One of our local vets says a good procedure to utilize is flushing the wound gently, don't over clean, don't use any topical antibiotics then cover the wound with a light bandage wrap if professional help has been called. Remember, you won't achieve sterile, only clean. I'm Jeff Keane. Paint Horse Connection Spring 2008