Skin infection

[goldengryffindor]

I have a chesnut TB gelding and in the last few days he has developed some scabs over his back. He is clipped but has a saddle patch left in (its winter here in Australia). They are all in the hairy area under the saddle, he also has a few where the hair is on his head. This makes me think it is due to sweat from riding. We have been washing him with antiseptic shampoo after he is ridden but they are not clearing up. Would love suggestions as too what it may be or what may be the cause of the scabs. Any help or knowledge appreciated.
Thanks.

 

[kellyeaton]

have you any rain over there it could be rain scald you are doing the right thing with washing it get your self some tea tree or aloe vera gel that should help!

 

[Box_Of_Frogs]

It sounds like rain scald which can be caused by turning a horse back out while still sweaty. Rainscald is a bacterial skin infection - the bacteria like damp skin so it can be caused by rain or sweat. The problem is that the bacteria "hide" under the scabs that they cause. It's easy to clear up but I'm afraid you have to GENTLY pick all the scabs off before washing carefully in Hibiscrub. Tufts of hair will come out too but they will grow back, though may grow back white. It's also fine and dandy to mix just an inch of dilute Hibiscrub up in a bucket and, after the scab picking, gently scrub the liquid in with a brush you can throw away afterwards and just LEAVE it to dry. It should clear up in just a week or so with careful nursing but you will have to be vigilant in the future so it doesn't come back, ie ruthlessly wash sweat off before ned is turned out!

 

[goldengryffindor]

thanks so much...that was really helpful, it must be being cause by the sweat from riding as he dosent really ever get wet from rain with all the rugs.

 

[kellyeaton]

ya clean up with hi bi scrub and then apply a tea tree cream that will help it heal and breathe but not get in fected again. and dont ride until healed!