When you arrive at the barn and you see your horse is injured, most of us start to panic. In fact it is useful to learn the horse first aid, learn how to handle an equine emergency. Finding out what injuries you can treat yourself and figure out when you need to call a veterinarian. Here is an overview what products you can use for minor cuts and scrapes;  

Product Antibacterial Use on minor cuts & scrapes Promotes drying Stops proud flesh
Aloe Vera* No Yes No No
Betadine Gel* Yes Yes No No
Betadine Scrub* Yes Yes, but rinse thoroughly Yes No
Betadine Solution* Yes Yes, but must be diluted Yes No
Blu-Kote To some extent Yes Yes No
Corona No Yes No No
Furall** Not very good Yes No No—promotes it
Fura-Zone** Not very good Yes No No—promotes it
Granulex V No No Yes Yes, label claims
Horseman’s Dream***** No Yes No No
Icthammol** No Yes No No
Neosporin* Yes Yes No No
Nolvasan* Yes Yes No No
Peroxide*** Yes, but needs No Yes No
Rubbing Alcohol**** long contact time No, stings Yes No
Wonder Dust To some extent No Yes No—promotes it
* Water-soluble products. These are best for minor wounds because of: antiseptic properties (except Aloe Vera); air can penetrate the product; some have emollient properties. Their water solubility also allows thorough and easy cleaning of the wound. Betadine Solution, however, must be diluted; used at full strength it actually interferes with antibacterial properties and reduces wound healing. Betadine Scrub must be thoroughly rinsed. Betadine products contain tamed iodine; never apply tincture of iodine (7%) to a wound. *** Peroxide causes the microscopic blood vessels around the wound to recede, thereby limiting healing.** Petroleum-based products. These are most useful for superficial scrapes and as emollients, but should not be used to thwart infection. Peroxide is not the best choice in wound care for horse skin. **** Rubbing alcohol requires about 10 minutes contact time to kill off microorganisms, and it stings badly when applied to an open skin wound. Limited first-aid value. ***** Horseman’s Dream contains Aloe and Vitamin E; good for minor wound care.