5 winter health problems: Rain Scald

By Harriet Linton

How to...

20 October 2008 09:01

Rain scald is caused by the same bacteria that cause mud fever - Dermatophilus congolensis. It is a skin infection that can appear on horses’ backs, if they’re left out in wet weather. It is more commonly seen in the winter months when the horses’ coats can remain wet for long periods of time. The bacteria get into the soft wet skin on the back, causing the skin to weep, become flaky and crusted, and the coat to matt. Longer coats may not help the situation.

Signs
Look out for clumps of hair and rough, raised bumps on the back that develop into painful-looking, crusty scabs. Once removed, scabs leave red, sore-looking skin underneath.

Prevention
Make sure your horse isn’t subjected to prolonged periods outside in rain and wet conditions.

Conventional Treatment
● Keep the horse inside, until the skin has healed.
● Scabs can be gently removed and antiseptic washes containing chlorhexidine or iodine used.
● Your vet may administer oral antibiotics/penicillin and supplements.
● The stable should be kept as clean and disinfected as much as is practically possible. 

Complementary treatment
The most successful homeopathic remedy is Dulcamara 30c – use when sores are under crusts or scabs. Use it two or three times daily depending on severity and continue until all lesions are gone. Use Mancinella 30c for large crusts with sticky sores. If the sores ooze and there are few scabs, try using Graphites 30c. If skin lesions itch and are accompanied by small scabby or sticky sores, consider Rhus tox 30c. Herbal plant-based medicines including stinging nettles, burdock, calendula (marigold), chamomile and seaweed may help. Combinations come as dry mixes or liquid tinctures.

Other Winter Health problems include Mud Fever, Respiratory Conditions, Arthritis and Thrush

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