It sometimes can be a difficult decision when to call the vet for an emergency, particularly in the middle of the night. 

The True Emergency

• Profuse bleeding: apply pressure, call vet
• Obvious fracture
• Colic signs that are intense or last over thirty minutes
• Foaling difficulties
• Swollen, closed eye
• Unable or unwilling to move
• Difficulty breathing or obviously distressed
• Lacerations requiring suturing
• It is also helpful to have a First Aid kit available to limit any further damage before the vet arrives

 First Aid Kit

• Roll of cotton wool
• Clean container for water
• Hibiscrub or other antiseptic solution
• Melonin/Allevyn/suitable dressing
• Gamgee
• Vetwrap/other adhesive bandage
• Antiseptic creams and soluble clear wound gels
• Animalintex or other poultice material
• Duck tape
• Hoof pick
• Round ended scissors
• Thermometer
• Clear directions to the yard
• Torch
• Phone numbers for vet, farrier and insurance company
• A well-charged mobile phone or change for pay phone

Most importantly try to remain calm and quiet. If you cannot restrain the horse safely then don’t.