The ASPCA and Equine Poison Prevention

The ASPCA is a leader for equine poison prevention. They are a non-profit organization dedicated to preventing cruelty to animals. The ASPCA is based in New York City and got its start in 1866. Their mission is “to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States.”

What To Do In An Emergency

If you think your horse has ingested something poisonous, remain calm and assess the situation. Is your horse having difficulty breathing? If so, clear the airway if you can. After that, call your horse clinician immediately. Ask your horse doctor if they have a “charcoal slurry.” This is concoction that will absorb toxic chemicals in the stomach and intestines. Then your horse doctor will give your horse and laxative to help them pass the charcoal concoction along with the toxins. Alternatively, feed your horse Epsom salt as laxative. However, always contact your clinician first to let them know what you’re doing and ask them for their professional opinion.

If you suspect that your animal has ingested a poisonous substance, please call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center’s 24-hour hotline at (888) 426-4435. For a list of horse clinicians in Colorado, check out our Local Resources page. Also, if you are looking for a horse property for sale in Colorado, contact Colorado Horse Property today and speak with one of our horse-person realtors.