Regular grooming can do much for general wellbeing.
Asthma, eczema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), nervousness and skin swellings – these ailments seem unrelated, but may all be signs of allergic reactions in your horse.
When a horse is exposed to even a small amount of allergen, the body releases antibodies – proteins designed to neutralise allergens and other antigens. There is then a battle in the body between the antibodies and allergens. peacekeeping force is histamine and other chemicals from surrounding cells. These “peacekeepers” cause the symptoms.
If your horse comes out in a rash, hives, ringworm, lice infestation, mange, sweet itch, mud fever, cracked heel and greasy heel, rain scald or lumps and bumps, urticaria (which can be horseshoe-shaped or circular) – then it has an allergic reaction. The causes can be varied, from a change in its diet to a change in its environment.
A change in bowel bacteria is the most common cause, followed by environmental changes, for example changing from a shavings bedding to straw bedding. The horse can be very distressed and may experience facial swelling. Keeping the skin clean and healthy will contribute to the general well-being of the horse.
No home remedy can take the place of veterinary advice, but you can make a herbal infusion from nettle, rosemary and calendula (a handful of each steeped in boiling water until cooled). Sponge this liquid over the affected areas to soothe itching; add ice to the infusion if the horse is very itchy. Apply oil or cream containing tea tree oil to areas that look inflamed.
A homeopath can make up the following: Apis mel: This is when a cool touch relieves the symptoms of urticaria.
Herbs: Feed 30g to 50g burdock, 30g to 50g cleavers and dandelion tissue salts, Nat Sulph.
Horses with COPD should be placed in an airy stable or put out with a rug (in winter) in a small paddock. Wet the teff or hay and slightly dampen the bedding with Golden Products Care, a natural antiseptic.
Garlic in the feed is useful in cases of sweet itch – it has an insect-repelling property and it is an excellent blood cleanser. Add apple cider vinegar to drinking water or feed, this helps soothe itching and also repels flies. – Kim Dyson • Contact Kim Dyson on 082 888 6511. |
