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Swellings
 Over the winter months, when you may not be riding everyday, it is still important to check your horse or pony daily for lumps and bumps. Swellings come in numerous forms but can basically be classified into three groups - fluid, solid or gaseous. Most swellings are due to infection, bruising or abrasions, insect bites, allergies or circulatory problems. Some horses legs will also fill during transport, or while standing overnight in a stable. The type of swelling can easily be identified by pressing the swollen area with your thumb for two or three seconds. If the pressed area quickly pops out and feeld warm and sensitive to the touch, infection is almost certainly the cause. Consult your vet for advice. On the other hand, if the skin appears cold to the touch, and the area remains depressed or 'pits' after pressure, and there is little or no pain, then it is usually due to a build up of fluid. Swellings that are itchy and cause the horse to rub are most likely to be the result of an insect bite or allergy. If your horse has a swelling, first determine its type. If the horse is lame, consult your vet as there maybe an underlying infection or a tendon injury etc. If the swelling is cold, the best form of first aid is to exercise the horse. Lunging at the trot for 10 - 15 minutes should dissipate the fluid. If the horse shows discomfort while being exercised, stop and apply cold therapy. The simplest method is to hose the leg for 15-20 minutes. About 10 minutes after hosing, return the horse to the lunge and continue exercise. Reapply cold therapy every two to three hours until the swelling subsides. Remember, this type of treatment is for a cold swelling only! If there is any heat, cold therapy should be applied and causes investigated.
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