tatty_v
Well-Known Member
Has anyone successfully managed a horse with an allergy to environmental mites (eg dust mites)?
Horse has been itchy all summer, gradually worsening. We assumed and treated for sweet itch but no improvement so have had intra dermal allergy testing, which has shown a dramatic allergic reaction to various dust mites, and wheat pollen.
The plan is to go through the desensitisation process, but that will take time, so I’m researching whether there’s any environmental changes I can make in the meantime to try and make him more comfortable.
We’re trying to avoid steroids unless we absolutely have to as before he came to us he had several severe laminitis episodes (has been laminitis free for three years with us due to very careful management, but we suspect he has EMS so it is hard work and we remain constantly vigilant).
Ideally we’d turn him out 24/7 but it just isn’t possible due to his weight/laminitis risk (even muzzled) and our pasture, which cannot take that level of turnout.
Any suggestions gratefully received - it’s been a really difficult summer and I just want to make him as comfortable as I can.
Horse has been itchy all summer, gradually worsening. We assumed and treated for sweet itch but no improvement so have had intra dermal allergy testing, which has shown a dramatic allergic reaction to various dust mites, and wheat pollen.
The plan is to go through the desensitisation process, but that will take time, so I’m researching whether there’s any environmental changes I can make in the meantime to try and make him more comfortable.
We’re trying to avoid steroids unless we absolutely have to as before he came to us he had several severe laminitis episodes (has been laminitis free for three years with us due to very careful management, but we suspect he has EMS so it is hard work and we remain constantly vigilant).
Ideally we’d turn him out 24/7 but it just isn’t possible due to his weight/laminitis risk (even muzzled) and our pasture, which cannot take that level of turnout.
Any suggestions gratefully received - it’s been a really difficult summer and I just want to make him as comfortable as I can.