It's important that you know how to take care of horses if you own, ride or handle them.The vital signs will help you determine when a horse needs veterinary attention.Every time you notice a change in the horse's behavior or its health, you should check its vital signs.
Step 1: Tie your horse up.
An assistant can hold the horse.
Step 2: Know the normal vital signs.
The temperature varies from horse to horse.The average temperature for a mare and a stallion is 100oF (37.8oC) and 38.6oC, respectively.The pulse rate is usually 36 to 42 beats per minute.The resting heart rate can be anywhere from 28 to 40 beats per minute.The normal rate of respiration is between 8 and 12 breaths per minute.It takes between 8 to 14 breaths per minute at rest.Two seconds is the average capillary refill time.
Step 3: It's a good idea to use a thermometer.
The tip should be Lubricated with a liquid.
Step 4: If the horse's tail is moved to the side, it will be out of the way.
The horse's rectum should be inserted slightly towards the ground.
Step 5: For at least three minutes, leave the thermometer in place.
After this time is over, take a reading.It's a good idea to clean the thermometer before storing it.
Step 6: If a horse is excited, nervous, in pain, or has a disease, the pulse rate will increase.
This can be a sign of heart disease if the pulse is weak, strong or absent.The horse must be seen by a doctor.
Step 7: The pulse can be found.
The pulse can be found near the front of the left jaw.
Step 8: Don't use your thumb as you may feel your pulse.
Press against the wall.
Step 9: To time a 15 second period, use a clock or counter.
Take the number of beats you counted and divide it by four.If you place your hand behind the horse's left elbow, you can take his pulse.Count each lub-dub as one beat.
Step 10: You can feel the horse'sbelly for one minute.
One inhale and one exhale should be counted as one breath.If you can't see the ribcage move, try to feel the horse's exhale by placing your hand in front of the nostrils.
Step 11: If possible use a stethoscope.
A stethoscope can be placed in the horse's windpipe to listen to its breathing.If the horse's windpipe is blocked, this will give you strange sounds.
Step 12: Lift the horse's lip.
You can create a white mark by pressing your thumb against the gum.
Step 13: Check the return time.
Within two seconds of releasing the pressure, the mark should return to normal salmon pink color.The horse may have shock if the CRT takes longer than 2 seconds.