Developement of the clinical profession of horses requires a deep knowledge of the animals that are being treated. Any excess of confidence or act of negligence, can be the cause for serious mishaps for both the clinic and the animal.
When you start any type of exploration it is essential to inquire about the horss character from the stablehand/groom if the owner of the animal is absent. Experience allow us in many occasions to determine if a horse in particular can be explored without difficulty or if on the other hand it will be necessary to employ other types of methods of containment in order to establish a diagnosis or a treatment with the lowest possible risk.

It is always important when we get near a horse, to speak to it and pet it so that this way it becomes familiar with our presence.
By observing the horse's attitude it permits us to prevent unexpected reactions from the animal. Any type of abrupt movement or signs of uncertainty from our part can make the horse's exploration difficult. Once we are familiarized with the animal, depending on the type of exploration and the area to be explored that we must always take special precautions.

GENERAL EXPLORATION

Efforts should be made to explore the animal in a quiet area and well illuminated; for some exploratory maneuvers the place of choice is the animals own box/stall, because that is where the animal feels more safe at. In these conditions it is possible to administrate even injections without having to restrain the horse's head.

Exploration in the box/stall

In its own environment the horse is generally noble, which greatly facilitates the majority of explorations. Always when it is possible, the horse must have its stable halter on, with its corresponding lead handled by the stablehand/groom. Any person that is not familiar handling of these animals always result as an additional risk at the time to hold them. Maneuvers such as rectal exploration, wound sutures and arthrocentesis should be performed in an appropriate area to avoid accidents or contamination of the exploration area.

Handling outside the box/stall

This is where the horse is most frequently explored. On many occasions it is possible to have an ample exploration area and well lit, clean and quiet. Out of the box/stall animals are more nervous and this is why it is important to take greater precautions.