Tips to Help Summer Eczema
Did you know that horses are susceptible to an Eczema like rash just as humans are? Anyone who has been affected by Eczema knows how itchy and painful it can be. This Eczema type rash that horses can contract is also known as Equine Summer Itch. The rash area usually occurs on the horse around the midline of the stomach and the head. Oftentimes, the horse will try to rub up against fences and other places to scratch the itchy area which only makes the problem worse and can damage its skin. The damaged skin is susceptible to infection which causes more discomfort for the horse, even causing the horse to be unrideable.
The Cause
The cause of the rash is from gnats called Culicoides. They are nicknamed “no-see-ums” because their size is comparable to a period. Along with having a painful bite, the gnats salvia has foreign proteins that contain antigens which cause the reaction on the horse’s skin. Due to the small size of these gnats, it is difficult for horse owners to know what to do and how to stop them. Culicoides are more active in the summer so for many horse owners, this is a seasonal issue.
Preventative Products from Equine Medical and Surgical Associates
Thankfully, there are healthy ways for owners to treat horses that have been affected by Equine Summer Itch.
Summer Eczema Oral Supplements include natural herbs that have shown great results in helping to treat the rash. The supplement soothes the reaction for the horse which will help relieve the itch.
For active summer eczema cases, Sore No More Classic Shampoo is a 32-oz herbal, all-natural shampoo that helps reduce itchy skin and heal sensitive, damaged skin. It promotes the reduction of bacterial count, removes crusts, and helps cool inflamed skin. Additionally, it reduces gnat bites by decreasing the urine attraction that brings gnats to your horse. We recommend using it three times a week for four weeks.
Vetasan ointment is a one-pound container of antiseptic chlorhexidine ointment. It is a topical that helps heal open wounds and rubbed damaged skin/scrapes seen in active summer eczema cases. It is an antibacterial ointment designed to soothe skin and stop the itch. We recommend using it 3 times a week for four weeks after you wash the horse in Sore No More shampoo in active cases.
Use Tritec 14 or Endure sprays 2x a day in the AM and PM to repel culicoides gnats.
Other Methods
There are other preventative measures you can take to help reduce Culicoid issues. Placing fans in horse stalls during the night is a great way to simply blow them away since they are not strong fliers. Remove standing water from the area since Culicoids can breed in it. Adding Omega-Oils to feed can help to decrease itchy skin. Equimax dewormer is a great way to boost your horse’s immune system which in turn helps reduce the risk of Equine Dermatitis. Bathing your horse regularly is also crucial to keep it healthy.
Horse Health this Summer
With the weather getting nicer, many people look forward to being able to spend quality time with their horses. It is your responsibility to keep your horse healthy during this time. Healthy products are available at Equine Medical and Surgical Associates to help ensure that you can do so! We offer a variety of highly-rated horse care products that will keep your horse healthy not only this summer but all year long. These products are important for getting the most out of your horse! Equine Medical and Surgicals veterinarian, Dr. Reilly, has many years of experience with horses of all breeds. If you would like to ask him any further questions you can contact him here. If you are interested in purchasing Summer Eczema Oral Supplement or any other horse products that can help prevent Summer Eczema please click here! Get the most out of your summer with your horse and do your part in keeping it healthy and happy!
