Horse's pharmacy - important things to have at home in the stable if an accident occurs
Why does every stable need a horse pharmacy?
Accidents happen – whether you have an active competition horse or a safe retired horse on the loose. A wound, a mold outbreak or a sudden swelling can occur quickly, and it is important to be able to act immediately.
Having a well-stocked stable pharmacy for horses is not only smart – it can be absolutely crucial for avoiding infections, relieving pain or keeping an injury under control until the vet can arrive.
Here we list the most important products to have in a basic horse pharmacy – and why they are needed.
1. Wound cleansing and disinfection
- Examples: Chlorhexidine, iodine solution, sterile saline solutions
- Used for: Cleaning wounds, scrapes, insect bites or cracks in the skin
- Tip: Avoid strong alcohol-based liquids that can sting.
2. Compresses, bandages and vetflex
- Examples: Sterile compresses, cotton rolls, adhesive bandages (vetflex)
- Used for: Wound treatment, swelling, support bandages
- Tip: Store in a waterproof box to keep them clean and dry.
3. Cooling gel and arnica ointment
- Examples: Arnica, cooling gel, clay pack
- Used for: Sore tendons, muscles or swelling after exercise or injury
- Tip: Good to use immediately after hard exertion or impact
4. Zinc ointment or oily ointment
- Example: Zinc ointment, Helosan, emollient ointment
- Used for: Mold, chafing, small cracks, dry skin areas
- Tip: Use as a protective barrier in wet pastures
5. Scissors, tweezers and disposable gloves
- For use in: Cutting bandages, removing small objects (e.g. pins), keeping clean
- Tip: Store in a separate plastic bag – preferably with a small bottle of hand sanitizer.
6. Fever thermometer
- Digital rectal thermometer – a quick and safe way to take your temperature
- Normal temperature - for horses, normal temperature is: approximately 37.5–38.2°C
- Tip: Take the temperature when the horse is healthy to know what is normal for your horse.
Extra good to think about:
- Mark the box clearly with “Horse Pharmacy”
- Store cool, dry and easily accessible.
- Review content regularly – replace old products
- Write down the vet's phone number and insurance information and keep it in the lid.
What do you do when an accident occurs?
- Stay calm – panicking will not help you or the horse.
- Start with wound washing or cooling, depending on the situation.
- Contact a veterinarian if you are unsure – better to have too much than too little.
- Document the damage with a mobile phone photo, especially if you are going to report it to insurance.
Build your horse pharmacy at Skara Hästsport
With us you will find everything you need for a complete and safe horse pharmacy – from wound care to cooling gel and bandages. We are happy to help you put together a customized package for your horse's needs, so visit us at the store in Skara for personal advice.
See our range of stable pharmacies here .
