How should a wound on a horse be treated?

Using tap water or sterile saline to treat a wound on a horse is the most effective method for cleaning and caring for the injury. Clean water or sterile saline is essential for flushing out debris, dirt, and bacteria from the wound. This helps prevent infection and promotes healing. It's important to ensure that the water used is clean and free from contaminants to avoid introducing any pathogens into the wound.

Cleaning a wound properly is crucial because improper cleaning can lead to complications such as infections, which can be much harder to treat and can lead to more severe health issues for the horse. Keeping the wound clean and moisture-balanced can also support the healing process, which is critical in maintaining the horse's health and performance.

Covering a wound with a wet bandage or leaving it exposed to air are not recommended practices. A wet bandage could provide a breeding ground for bacteria, and leaving the wound exposed can lead to further injury and contamination. Both of these methods can compromise the horse's recovery and should be avoided in favor of proper cleaning and potentially applying a suitable dressing if necessary after cleaning.