Professional Assessment of Equine Wound Management Protocols in Government Veterinary Centers in Zamfara State

Equine wound management represents one of the most frequently encountered clinical challenges in field veterinary practice, and the appropriateness of wound care protocols significantly influences healing outcomes in working horses. This study professionally assesses equine wound management protocols applied at government veterinary centers across Zamfara State, North West Nigeria, between January and October 2023. A structured facility assessment and practitioner interview process was conducted across 16 government veterinary centers, evaluating wound classification systems used, cleaning and debridement protocols, dressing materials, systemic therapy, and follow-up structures. A concurrent prospective monitoring study followed 58 equine wound cases managed at these centers over a six-month period. Wound classification was informal and inconsistent across 88% of assessed centers. Wound lavage protocols were appropriate in 44% of cases, while primary wound closure was attempted in inappropriately contaminated wounds in 31% of cases, leading to dehiscence. Petroleum jelly and tetracycline-based wound sprays constituted the most commonly used topical agents. Systematic follow-up beyond 14 days was conducted in fewer than 25% of monitored cases. Outcomes for wounds managed under structured, evidence-based protocols were significantly superior to those managed without defined protocols. The study recommends the urgent development and dissemination of standardized equine wound management guidelines tailored for resource-limited government centers in North Western Nigeria and the establishment of a regular professional supervision framework. Keywords: equine wound management, wound protocol, Zamfara State, government veterinary centers, wound healing.