How to recognize the signs of skin distress in a horse?

To recognize the signs of skin distress in a horse, several symptoms must be observed:

Visible signs on the skin

• Skin lesions and abrasions, which can progress to open wounds in severe cases
• Redness, inflammation and skin irritation
• Areas of dry skin
• Appearance of small nodules under the hair
• Skin feels grainy to the touch
• Crust formation
• Abnormal hair loss
• Red papules, particularly in the case of summer dermatitis
• Skin flakes or dandruff
• Rough patches on the skin

Changes in behavior

• Excessive itching, manifested by frequent scratching against objects 1
• Horse nibbling at itself to relieve itching 1
• Signs of general discomfort 3

Other signs to watch for

• Changes in the appearance of the coat, such as hair becoming woolly and shaggy
• Eye discharge or irritation, which may be related to skin problems
• Loss of appetite, which can be an indirect sign of health problems, including skin problems

It is crucial to recognize these signs quickly and take appropriate action, as persistent skin problems can lead to secondary infections or indicate more serious health issues.

What are the risks of secondary skin infections in horses?

Horses are susceptible to several types of secondary skin infections, which can occur following primary injuries or predisposing conditions. Here are the main risks of secondary skin infections in horses:

Bacterial infections

• Pyoderma, which manifests itself through the appearance of pimples and hairless areas, sometimes accompanied by itching.
• Staphylococcal infections, particularly in cases of post-surgical wounds and abscesses.
• Dermatophilosis, caused by the bacterium Dermatophilus congolensis, causes yellow or brownish crusts on the skin, itching, and hair loss.

Fungal infections

• Ringworm, caused by fungi such as Trichophyton equinum or Trichophyton mentagrophytes, manifests itself as circular hairless patches and itching.

Complications related to primary skin conditions

• In the case of recurrent summer dermatitis (RSE), intense itching can lead to open sores from excessive scratching, creating a breeding ground for secondary infections.
• Mud fever, an infection of the pastern usually caused by a wet environment, can also promote secondary infections.

Aggravating factors

• Exposure of open wounds to sunlight can lead to photosensitivity, worsening the damage and delaying healing.
• Excessive humidity, as in the case of mud fever, creates an environment conducive to the growth of bacteria and fungi.
• Burns present a high risk of infection due to dermal ischemia which leads to the formation of necrotic tissue conducive to bacterial proliferation.

To prevent these secondary infections, it is crucial to treat primary skin conditions quickly, maintain good hygiene, and consult a veterinarian as soon as the first symptoms appear to implement appropriate treatment.

What are the benefits of ozonated oil in skincare?

Ozonated oils are vegetable oils in which ozone (O₃) has been dissolved through a process called ozonation. This process involves passing ozone, generated from pure oxygen, through a vegetable oil selected for its richness in unsaturated fatty acids, such as olive, sunflower, or sesame oil. The ozone reacts with the fatty acids to form compounds called ozonides, which give these oils exceptional therapeutic properties: they are antibacterial, healing, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant.

Ozonated oils are distinguished by their ability to promote tissue regeneration and combat skin infections. They stimulate the production of growth factors and release active oxygen locally, accelerating healing while eliminating pathogenic microorganisms. Their stability and efficacy make them a valuable tool for treating various dermatological problems in horses and other animals.

The different formulations adapted for equine care:

• Ozone Super Guard : Concentrated to 100% ozone, this oil is ideal for open wounds and acute inflammation. Thanks to its powerful bactericidal and healing properties, it can be applied directly to mucous membranes and weeping lesions.
• Ozone Mud Guard Enriched with sweet almond oil, this formula (30% ozone) is perfect for maintaining the suppleness and hydration of tissues during the healing phase. It is recommended for treating scabs, irritations, and minor everyday wounds.
• Ozone Skin Guard Containing Sangre de Drago (a resin with anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties), this oil is specifically indicated for summer dermatitis. It soothes itching while protecting the skin against external aggressors.

These oils offer a natural and effective solution to support each stage of equine skin care , while adapting to the specific needs of each situation.