NEW INNOVATIONS AND TIMELY CONSIDERATIONS IN EQUINE LAMENESS AND SURGERY
Fig. 5. A full-size, jointed horse mannequina
is utilized for train-
ing of emergency personnel in proper positioning for safe han- dling and manipulation of recumbent horses. Here, students and veterinarians can practice use of the foot-on-neck method to learn to properly restrain a down horse. Photo courtesy of Dr. Ruth Franczek.
Fig. 7. An anesthetized horse in recovery is restrained effec- tively in lateral recumbency by a female student that weighs less than 140 pounds using the foot-on-neck method. The head and eyes are protected by a Ha Dr. Rebecca Husted.
¨st Head Protector.h Photo courtesy of
● Professional shirt/jacket or scrubs with logo to identify yourself.
Note: Helmets are proven protective equipment and are mandatory for professional emergency responders due to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) rules about situations where there is any possi-
ble impact.5 They are highly recommended for anyone dealing with horses in recumbent or recovery situations for the same reasons.6
Recommended Recumbent Animal Restraint Equipment
● Halter/8-to-12-foot lead rope. ● Head protection and/or blindfold.
Fig. 6. Control of the head by having an animal handler distribute their weight while standing, with the foot located directly behind the atlanto-occipital joint. In this photo, the horse has on a halter and lead, with a Becker head protector and blindfold in place for general anesthesia (castration).
