best way to clean up after squirty poops?

I just got a new horse, he’s older and the shipping stress has given him a mild case of loose stools. The old owners informed me this was likely to happen, he regularly takes a probiotic and it should clear up on its own. He’s seeing a vet sometime this week (gotta call and make that appointment) because he needs teeth taken care of too.

Unfortunately it’s February, and I’m sure his butt is not too comfortable back there, and his tail is absolutely nasty. What’s the best way to clean up the mess without making him too cold?

Bucket of warm water with mild soap, dunk his tail in it, wipe his bum with wet cloths. Then a clean bucket of water to wipe/rinse until all soapy residue is gone. Dry his skin thoroughly with towels. Then if it appears irritated I would apply diaper rash cream such as Desitin.

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Sounds good. I will bring a kettle to the barn since we don’t have any warm water. I just called the vet and they’re coming out Thursday morning to take a look at him and do his teeth. He’s otherwise healthy so I’m not too worried, but I’ll call them sooner if it’s warranted.

Also once you get him cleaned up you can wipe his hind end down with baby oil. It will help keep the poo from sticking so much and make the next clean up easier!

When my horse gets periodic squirts, I clean the tail and then do one big braid, to help keep it out of way when he poops. Now he has a massive tail, but I think it would help in any case…
Edited to add: you could also fold the tail up and vet wrap it just below the dock till things settle down…