Under normal conditions, a horse's healthy skin acts as a protective barrier, preventing the entry of different microorganisms. However, environmental factors such as high humidity, cold, mud, dirty bedding, and poorly ventilated, hot stalls favor the appearance of skin conditions.
Certain genetic factors predispose some breeds more than others to developing pastern dermatitis. Horses with white hair on the lower part of their limbs, for example, are more prone to developing it.
The condition begins as a mild dermatitis, with irritation observed in the pastern folds, and the area appearing sore, sensitive, red, and warm. When the skin damage is severe, softening of the skin and open wounds are visible, followed by hair loss, inflammation, and the presence of scabs. If the condition continues to advance, exudates appear, leading to infections and deep cracks in the affected areas. These stages are uncomfortable and painful for the horse and can lead to lameness.
For this condition, the best cure is prevention. To carry it out, there must be a daily and systematic routine, such as washing the limbs with soap and water and drying them properly with a towel.
THE SOLUTION FOR PASTERNS
However, during winter, it is sometimes difficult to prevent pastern dermatitis from appearing. In these cases, it is important to minimize contact with mud, water, and dirt in general. Additionally, providing appropriate treatment can be helpful in improving and curing the symptoms.
PODODERMATITIS OR "THRUSH"
Cleaning the horse's hooves at least once a day and exercising them can help prevent or eliminate thrush. However, it is also important to avoid, as much as possible, dirty and humid environments.
SOFT HOOVES
Therefore, although keeping the hooves well hydrated is important, we must avoid, as much as possible, our horse being immersed in mud, wet, and/or dirty places for long periods in order to have healthy hooves. Frequent exercise is also important to maintain the normal biomechanics of its structures.
