Very Common
Less Common
You also might be observing
Observation
What you see. The starting point for addressing any equine health related issue is your observation.
YOU ARE OBSERVING
Wound to Lower Neck
Summary
Wounds to the neck can range from minor to fatal. The severity relates to the structures involved. In the lower third of the neck is the jugular groove, through which runs the jugular vein, carotid artery and some very important nerves. At the underline of the neck is the windpipe (trachea) and esophagus. If any of these critical structures are involved in a wound, it could be life-threatening.
The spinal column runs parallel to and just above this, and right under the mane is the nuchal ligament, a large ligament that is involved in supporting the head.
The spinal column runs parallel to and just above this, and right under the mane is the nuchal ligament, a large ligament that is involved in supporting the head.
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Code Red
Call Your Vet Immediately, Even Outside Business Hours- If there is excessive bleeding.
- If you wish to have the best functional and cosmetic outcome, no matter the cost.
- If the wound occurred within the last 24 hours.
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Code Orange
Call Your Vet at Their First Available Office Hours- If the results of the Whole Horse Exam (WHE) suggest the horse is otherwise normal.
- If the wound occurred over 24 hours ago.
your role
What To Do
If the wound is superficial, isn't bleeding much, and does not appear to affect your horse's stance or movement, you may be able to treat it on your own.In contrast, a large wound to the jugular groove may sever large vessels and cause life-threatening bleeding. The involvement of important structures affect the prognosis. Certain wounds may benefit from surgical repair and, generally, there is a 24-hour window of time in which that is an option.
If you have any doubt about the severity of the wound, contact your vet with your findings and concerns. If there is significant bleeding from a neck wound, apply direct pressure to stop the bleeding until your vet arrives.
What Not To Do
Do not apply antibiotic products to the injury unless advised to do so by your vet.
Skills you may need
Procedures that you may need to perform on your horse.
your vet's role
Your vet will evaluate the injury and determine whether repair (suturing), is needed. If vital structures are involved, other specific diagnostics and treatments may be necessary.
Questions Your Vet Might Ask:
- Where is the wound located and what does it look like?
- Can you send a photo?
- How severe does the bleeding seem?
- Are you able to stop or slow the bleeding with pressure?
- When did you first notice the wound?
- When do you think the wound occurred?
- What are the results of the Whole Horse Exam (WHE)?
Diagnostics Your Vet May Perform
Figuring out the cause of the problem. These are tests or procedures used by your vet to determine what’s wrong.
Diagnoses Your Vet May Consider
The cause of the problem. These are conditions or ailments that are the cause of the observations you make.
Treatments Your Vet May Recommend
A way to resolve the condition or diagnosis. Resolving the underlying cause or treating the signs of disease (symptomatic treatment)
Very Common
Less Common
Rare
further reading & resources
Helpful Terms and Topics
Written, reviewed or shared by experts in equine health