Colic

Indications:

Off feed, laying down, decreased fecal production or diarrhea, pawing, walking in circles, getting up and down frequently without shaking afterward, rolling, sweating,  kicking at sides. Any or all of these symptoms may be present.

First aid:   Control pain and self-inflicted damage from rolling by walking.  Don’t try to hold the horse up.   If he has to go down, let him, but then try to get him back up.   If he wants to lie still on the ground without rolling, let him.

Information for the Vet:   Try to take a pulse using the stethoscope.   A continuous high pulse indicates serious illness.  Take the rectal temperature if possible. Check the membranes by lifting the lip and looking at the gums.   Record the color and moistness.   Listen to the gut sounds by placing the stethoscope on the bottom of the belly wall.  Call the veterinarian as soon as symptoms are recorded. Reata Equine's emergency number is 749-1446.  If the call is made after hours, the phone system will automatically route your call to the cell phone of the on call emergency veterinarian,. State the prolem and say that  it is an emergency and wait for a  reply.  When the vet calls back, give the symptoms, know     what medications you have available, and wait for instructions.