Which of the following is a common health risk associated with puncture wounds in horses?

Puncture wounds in horses can introduce harmful bacteria into the body, and one of the most significant risks associated with these types of injuries is tetanus. Tetanus is caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, which is commonly found in soil, dust, and manure. When a puncture wound occurs, it can create an anaerobic environment where this bacterium thrives and produces toxins that affect the nervous system, leading to severe muscle stiffness and spasms.

Horses are particularly susceptible to tetanus if they are not properly vaccinated or if their vaccination status is not current. The tetanus vaccination is a crucial part of a horse's preventive health care, especially for those that are frequently exposed to environments where puncture wounds may occur.

While rabies, colic, and fever can all present health risks in horses, they are not specifically associated with puncture wounds in the same way that tetanus is. Rabies is transmitted usually through bites from infected animals, colic refers to digestive issues, and fever can be a symptom of various infections but does not directly relate to the specific risks of puncture wounds. Thus, tetanus stands out as the primary health concern in this context.