rain scald and rugging advice

[BigLebowski]

Hi,
I've been treating a fly-grazed horse on my land for rain scald, following a vet's advice.
All scabs are removed and I've been applying sun-block regularly to areas without fur.
The horse has tree cover although he prefers to graze and stand in the rain.
With rain forecast over the next few weeks, should I dry him off then rug him up with a lightweight waterproof rug?
I'm concerned the rain will hamper healing.
It's quite warm though and will sweat exacerbate the problem if rugged?
He's a slow, slim, plodding, horse with short fur and doesn't exercise.
Thanks

 

[AmyMay]

Do you have the option of stabling?

 

[BigLebowski]

No stabling option

 

[meleeka]

I wouldn’t try and avoid rugging for the reasons you said.

I would wash with an antibacterial shampoo when the weather is fine(I’ve used Coatex for dogs on the recommendation of my vets). Another thing I’ve found that really helps is regular brushing. When the coat gets wet and then tries it tends to clump together which hampers its ability to repel water. Even a quick rub once its try helps.

 

[BigLebowski]

Thanks Meleeka. How do I choose a rug size? They're typically stated as 5"3 to 7"0 etc. Is this body length?
Would you recommend a waterproof summer turnout rug?

 

[meleeka]

Thanks Meleeka. How do I choose a rug size? They're typically stated as 5"3 to 7"0 etc. Is this body length?
Would you recommend a waterproof summer turnout rug?

Rugs are measured from the centre of the chest to the end of the rump, level with the top of the tail. Personally I wouldn’t rug while it’s still mild though.

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