Injections in the neck must be given in the correct place in order to avoid important structures such as arteries, vertebra and nerves. A method to identify this area is to:
- Place your hand flat on the horse’s neck just behind the halter
- Slide your hand down the neck towards the shoulder blade
- Stop when you reach the front of the shoulder blade
- Spread apart your index finger from your middle finger
- Between your fingers is a good place to give the injection.
The injection should be given in the last 1/3 of the neck, in the middle 1/3, halfway between the top of the mane and the bottom of the neck. A triangle is created by the front of the shoulder, the bottom of the crest and the top of the vertebrae.
Possible complications include a local reaction, an injection abscess, or an anaphylactic reaction. Anaphylaxis while extremely rare, can be life threatening. Call your veterinarian immediately.