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Preventing Skin Irritation in Horses Affected by Sweet Itch

Horses Affected by Sweet Itch and other Issues – The Last Ride Arizona

An inflammation of the skin that is the result of an allergic reaction, Horses Affected by Sweet Itch is caused by a biting midge called Culicoides. Also known as Summer Seasonal Recurrent Dermatitis (SSRD), sweet itch is the result of an allergic reaction to the female midge’s saliva. The condition generally causes the horse to become itchy along the back, particularly around the tail and the mane.

Sweet itch typically affects susceptible horses for the first time when they are young. Once they condition has developed, the horse will always have issues with the condition. Therefore, it is important to take steps to control the condition.

Horses Affected by Sweet ItchTo control sweet itch, it is important to apply insect repellent on a regular basis. Since the skin is usually quite sensitive or may be raw from the horse rubbing itself in an attempt to relive the itching, care must be taken to select a repellent that is suitable for broken or sore skin.

Since midges are most active at dawn and dusk as well as on mild, humid and still days, it may be necessary to keep the horse in a stable or under shelter in these conditions in order to help minimize biting. It is also best to have affected horses graze in dry, open areas since midges are attracted to areas of decomposing vegetation found near to water or in woodland.

When the time comes that you must say goodbye to your beloved horse, The Last Ride Arizona provides caring large animal removal.