Gunshot injuries in horses: 22 cases (1971-1993).

The research offers an investigation into 22 cases of horses that had experienced firearm injuries. The study reveals that some horses were able to return to their previous activities after their injuries, however, those with deep or vital structure injuries faced a higher risk of death or euthanization.

Summary of Horse Injuries

• The study focuses on and examines 22 incidents of horses having sustained gunshot injuries.
• Of these 22, the bullets used were from a variety of sources: nine horses were shot with bullets from a .22-caliber gun, six were shot with buckshot, two were shot with BB pellets, one horse was shot with a .35-caliber bullet, and one was injured by an airgun pellet.

Extent of Injuries

• For eight out of the 22 horses, injuries were limited to skin or skeletal muscles. Out of these, seven horses managed to return to their preceding functions.
• For the remaining 14 horses, their injuries were more severe, affecting additional structures. This includes two instances affecting the sinus and pharynx, one instance each involving the mandible, tooth, aorta, tibia, a joint, and the trachea, along with three cases affecting the eye and three affecting the gastrointestinal tract.

Results and Impact of Injuries

• Of the three horses that had exclusively eye injuries, all were discharged and returned to their owners.
• For the remaining 11 horses, the damage was drastically worse as it impacted critical or deeper structures. Out of these 11, three died, with five being euthanized, and only three surviving the ordeal.
• This data suggests that firearm injuries to deep/vital structures are not only more damaging but significantly increase the risk of mortality or need for euthanasia.