Incidence and risk factors of horse kicks in horses and their handlers in selected stables in Lagos State, Nigeria: A two-year prospective study (2021-2023)

Abstract

Horses, with their powerful hindquarters and defensive kicking mechanisms, present a considerable risk of severe injury to both humans and fellow equines. The lack of comprehensive data on horse kicks underscores the need for increased awareness of potential hazards. We aimed to prospectively study the incidence and risk factors of horse kicks in horses and handlers in selected stables in Lagos State, Nigeria, from 2021 to 2023. A total of 200 horses and 55 handlers were included. The incidence of horse kicks was 12.5% in horses and 29.1% in handlers. For horses, personal space invasion (52%) was the most common situation leading to kick incidents, while for handlers, fear (43.8%) and startle response (31.3%) were the primary triggers. Injuries sustained included skin abrasions (32% in horses, 68.8% in handlers), hematomas (16% in horses), muscle/nerve damage (20% in horses, 12.5% in handlers), and fractures (32% in horses, 18.8% in handlers). Significant risk factors for horse kicks in horses were old age (>15 years) and being a stallion. In handlers, significant risk factors included young age (24–44 years), occupation as a farrier, and less than 5 years of experience. Horse kicks occur in both horses and their handlers. The findings highlight the need for targeted safety measures and training, particularly for high-risk groups, to reduce the risks associated with horse kicks for both horses and handlers in Lagos State stables.