Bandaging Material: Bandages, padding and wraps for your first aid kit

Bandaging Material: prepared for emergencies

A small cut on the leg, a hoof abscess or an injury in the field: when a dressing is needed, it has to happen fast. Good bandaging material therefore belongs in every equine first aid kit. In our range you will find gauze bandages, conforming bandages, dressing fleece, cotton wool rolls, cohesive bandages and a tough hoof dressing protector that shields a hoof dressing from wet and wear.

How a dressing is built up

A dressing usually consists of several layers. A non-stick wound dressing or dressing fleece goes directly on the wound. On top of that, cotton wool provides padding and spreads the pressure. A gauze or conforming bandage holds the padding in place, and a cohesive bandage finishes the dressing off. On the hoof, a hoof dressing protector keeps the dressing in place so your horse can still walk around.

Applying and checking correctly

A bandage must never be too tight, otherwise it presses on the tendons and restricts circulation. Wrap evenly without creases and leave a little padding showing at the top and bottom. Check the dressing regularly for slipping, wetness and swelling above or below it. For wounds, your vet will decide how often the dressing needs changing.

Frequently asked questions

How tight should a bandage on a horse's leg be?
It should stay in place without constricting. You should still be able to fit a finger under the top layer. If the leg swells above or below the bandage, take it off and reapply it.

What do I need for a hoof dressing?
Cotton wool padding, a conforming bandage, a cohesive bandage and, as an outer layer, a hoof dressing protector or strong duct tape have proven their worth. This keeps the dressing clean and dry. In the case of a hoof abscess, your vet or farrier will explain exactly how to treat it.

How much bandaging material should I keep at the yard?
At least enough for two complete dressings on one leg, so you always have a change ready. Store everything clean and dry in a box with a lid. Replace anything you use straight away.