Page 115 - September2021

VETERINARY VIEWS
Horses with white legs are subject to a skin problem referred to as “scratches,” also known as photodermatitis or photo- activated vasculitis.
scrutinized carefully for toxic plants. Some horses are acutely allergic to alfalfa-based products and may develop scratches with long-term consumption.
It helps to protect a horse’s white markings against the sun with leg coverings and face masks when outside. This is accomplished by using leg bandages, tube socks, commercial Whinneys socks designed for this purpose, and with facemasks with nose coverage. Many horses sweat beneath protective attire, especially in direct sunlight or on warm, humid days, and
this could result in other skin lesions. For ultraviolet irritation problems in areas of white markings on a horse, minimize the horse’s time in direct sunlight by providing appropriate shelter or turning the horse out during the night hours.
Pink, lightly or non-haired skin on the muzzle and areas of pink skin with light
hair covering on the torso are also at risk
of sunburn. Sunburn can cause pain and
has the potential to develop secondary skin infections or permanent scarring. Facemasks with nose coverage are great for insect protection and help protect against sunburn. Alternatively, sunscreen ointment protects against the sun without pressure or abrasion that may occur with masks. Always try sunscreen compounds on a small area first to check for a reaction.
INSECTS
Insect hypersensitivities tend to be frustrating for horses and their owners. The
best way to minimize these reactions is with effective fly management that includes daily manure removal from stalls and paddocks, and regular dragging of pastures to break up manure piles. Use of fly predator wasps around the barn and/or the use of a feed-through to control fly maturation and growth are other effective insect control strategies. Minimizing mosquito vectors starts with managing areas of standing water.
Insect repellent systems include overhead stall/barn spray systems, fly sprays or roll-ons for individuals, and shampoos. Pyrethrin- based insecticides are useful but require regular application. Some horses are sensitive to different insecticide products, and some products may adversely affect humans
when absorbed through the skin or inhaled. Evaluate water run-off to minimize entry of inappropriate chemicals into water resources.
Insect irritation is not only annoying to horses but can sap a horse’s energy from constant efforts to keep insects at bay. Ear sensitivity also may elicit behavioral problems, which is not only difficult to manage but may affect performance. Ear protection may be useful even during competition to minimize a horse’s distraction. For stalled or pastured horses, a full facemask with ear netting provides relief along with flysheets and leg netting.
Insect irritation is not only annoying to horses but can sap a horse’s energy from constant efforts to keep insects at bay.
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