Cut on leg - what to do?

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PartlyPickled

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My mare got a cut in the field last night, not big or deep and not much blood, but it went through a brushing boot (so there was clearly a lot of force) and is a bit swollen. Its in the inside of the front left middle of the bone and swelling is only around the cut and on bone (not the joint or tendon). She's not hopping lame but is trotting up a bit short, i was thinking it may just be badly bruised. It's nothing that made me want the vet cleay but how long do you think she'll be lame for? When should i call the vet? What would you do if you were me? Im panicking and feel a bit lost.
 
Can you post a picture?
Definitely get vet if she isn't up to date with her tetanus jabs (though usually done routinely with 'flu). Or if cut needs stitching (e.g. if the edges aren't meeting on their own - depends on size - would you get it stitched if it was on you?); if it shows any sign of infection; if lameness worse tomorrow; or if no improvement within a few days.
You are probably right that it is mostly bruising but pays to be safe. Most vets happy to talk on the phone and give you guidance as to whether it needs a visit.
 
Well if it was my horse I know that by tomorrow morning his leg would be as large as a balloon! I always have to get a vet no matter how tiny the injury, and the normal treatment is anti inflamatory to take the bruising away and antibiotics in case of infection. Definitely cold hose to take the bruising away - that is first aid really.
 
I would get vet. Swelling could be infection and on that part of leg there is little to protect underlying bone. An injury only has to penetrate the outer layer on bone (periosteum) to risk introducing infection with potentially serious results.
 
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