Equine Summer Dermatitis: The Complete Guide to 15 Essential Questions to Protect Your Horse

Summer dermatitis, also known as Equine Recurrent Summer Dermatitis (ERD), is a common skin condition in horses. This article answers the 15 most frequently asked questions about this condition, highlighting the effectiveness of ozonated oil, particularly Ozone Skin Guard , in the prevention and treatment of summer dermatitis.

1. What is equine summer dermatitis?

Equine dermatitis is a complex skin condition resulting from a combination of factors. Contrary to popular belief, it doesn't simply begin with an allergic reaction to insect bites. In reality, the process starts with a weakening of the horse's immune system, which typically occurs during seasonal changes. This immune disruption is primarily due to the horse's difficulty adapting to the sudden change in its diet, from winter hay to the fresh, lush grass of spring. This abrupt change can cause an internal imbalance that manifests as pruritus ( itching ). It is at this point that insects, particularly midges (biting midges), become involved. Attracted to the horse's already irritated and fragile skin, they bite these sensitive areas. The bites then aggravate the existing irritation and can trigger an allergic reaction to the insects' saliva, thus amplifying the initial problem. Summer dermatitis is therefore characterized by a vicious cycle where immune weakening, dietary change, initial itching and insect bites intertwine to create a chronic and recurring skin condition in sensitive horses.

2. What are the symptoms of summer dermatitis?

The main symptoms include:

• Intense itching
• Hair loss
• Crust formation
• Partial alopecia
• Wounds caused by excessive scratching

3. What are the causes of summer dermatitis?

1. Weakening of the immune system: The change of season, especially the transition from winter to spring, can temporarily weaken the horse's immunity.
2. Dietary change: The abrupt transition from winter hay to fresh, rich spring grass can cause an internal imbalance, weakening the horse's skin.
3. Genetic predisposition: Certain breeds, such as Shetland, Welsh, Icelandic, Friesian and Arabian ponies, are more likely to develop this condition.
4. Allergic reaction: Sensitive horses develop an allergy to a protein present in the saliva of biting insects, mainly midges.
5. Environmental factors: The presence of humidity, stagnant water areas and a temperate climate (15-35°C) promote the proliferation of vector insects.
6. Stress: It can worsen the condition by further weakening the immune system.
7. Nutritional deficiencies: A lack of zinc and B vitamins can weaken the skin structure, making it more vulnerable to insect attacks.
8. Prolonged exposure: Horses living constantly outdoors without shelter are more exposed to insects and therefore more at risk.

4. Which horses are most likely to develop

Summer dermatitis?

Although all horses can be affected, some breeds are more predisposed. Summer dermatitis affects approximately 1 in 10 horses in France, with a higher prevalence in certain horse breeds and ponies.

5. How to prevent summer dermatitis?

Prevention is crucial, especially for horses that have already suffered from sweet itch. Here are some preventative measures:

• Keep the horse away from wetlands (lakes, ponds)
• Use insect repellents, but be careful of irritating ingredients.
• Install fly traps in the stable
• Use fly sheets, but do not wear them continuously as these sheets can cause irritation.
• Adjust outing times to avoid periods of intense insect activity.

6. What is the role of ozonated oil in the treatment of

Summer dermatitis?

Ozonated oil, such as Ozone Skin Guard , is particularly effective in treating summer dermatitis. It possesses powerful antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. By delivering active oxygen directly to the affected areas, it promotes cell regeneration and accelerates wound healing. In cases of mane dermatitis, ozone encourages hair regrowth.

7. Why is Ozone Skin Guard recommended for summer dermatitis?

Ozone Skin Guard is a specific ozonated oil formulation designed to relieve summer dermatitis and other skin conditions in horses. Its benefits include:

• Fast relief from inflammation
• Itching reduction
• Accelerated healing of skin lesions

8. How to use Ozone Skin Guard to treat summer dermatitis?

For optimal results, apply Ozone Skin Guard to the affected areas once a day, massaging gently to promote absorption. The frequency and duration of application can be adjusted according to the severity of symptoms.

9. What other treatments are available for summer dermatitis?

In addition to ozonated oil, other treatments may include:

• Insect repellents
• Garlic-based dietary supplements

10. Can summer dermatitis be cured permanently?

Unfortunately, sweet itch is a chronic condition that tends to recur annually. However, with proper management and preventative treatments, it is possible to effectively control the symptoms and significantly improve the horse's quality of life. Using ozonated oil as a preventative measure and at the first sign of symptoms considerably reduces its occurrence.

11. When does summer dermatitis usually appear?

Summer dermatitis is seasonal. It usually starts to appear in the spring, intensifies in the summer, and then subsides in the fall.

12. How does summer dermatitis affect the horse's quality of life?

Summer dermatitis can significantly affect a horse's well-being by causing:

• Constant discomfort due to itching
• Painful skin lesions
• Chronic stress
• A decline in athletic performance

13. Why is it important to have Ozone Skin Guard in your equine medicine cabinet?

Ozone Skin Guard is a versatile product essential in any equine pharmacy for several reasons:

• Preventive efficacy against summer dermatitis
• Prompt treatment of symptoms as soon as they appear
• Healing properties for various skin conditions
• Safe and natural use

14. Can summer dermatitis affect other parts of the body besides the skin?

Although summer dermatitis is primarily a skin condition, its side effects can include:

• Weight loss due to stress and discomfort
• A decline in general immunity
• Changes in behavior linked to chronic discomfort

15. Are there any environmental factors that worsen summer dermatitis?

Certain environmental factors can exacerbate summer dermatitis:

• The proximity of stagnant water bodies, which promotes the proliferation of insects
• Hot and humid climates
• Wooded areas or areas with dense vegetation, offering suitable habitats for insects 1 3

Conclusion

Sweet itch is a complex condition that requires a comprehensive management approach. The use of effective products like Ozone Skin Guard , combined with appropriate preventative measures, can greatly improve the comfort and health of affected horses. By better understanding this condition and being equipped with the right tools, horse owners can offer their equine companions a better quality of life, even when faced with this recurring ailment. Ozone Skin Guard stands out as a valuable ally in the fight against sweet itch. Its versatile action makes it an essential product in any equine medicine cabinet, offering both a preventative solution and an effective treatment. By investing in this type of innovative product, horse owners take an important step towards proactive and effective management of their animals' skin health.