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.
Map Shampoo is also a great option for cleaning around the rash area. This shampoo is all-natural and even helps heal the rash. Map Shampoo should be used three days in a row and then twice a week until the skin is healed. After just one bottle is used of the Map Shampoo, you are recommended to go back to regular shampoo and bathe three times a week.
Quadrabiotic Enzyme Ointment works great when applied after using the Map Shampoo! Massaging some of the areas with the ointment will help to fend off secondary infections and itchy sensations.
RK Topical Horse Fly Spray™ helps to fend off the cause of Equine Summer Itch which is the gnats. Applying this to the horse will help to repel Culicoides as well as other pesky insects such as ticks, mosquitoes, and flies. This allows the skin to heal since the Culicoides and other insects will not be able to do harm to it. The RK Topical Horse Fly Spray™ with the oral supplement achieves excellent results!
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!
