August was the wettest month EVER in New York, Philadelphia and New Jersey. Thanks in part to Hurricane Irene!  Hawaii overall is the rainiest state in the US. Other American states with lots of rain year round are in the southeastern part of the country and along the Gulf coast. Speaking of which, have you prepped your equine emergency evacuation kit yet? We blogged about this last week, read it here.

With all this rain brings on the concern about equine skin disease, especially rain rot, which is one of the most common skin infections seen in horses. Caused by Dermatophilus spp., it’s bacteria that normally live without consequence in the equine coat. The earlier you detect rain rot, the easier it will be to spare your horse the discomfort and cosmetic problems associated with it.

What are the signs of rain rot?
EQQUS magazine describes it like this:
“The signs of rain rot are unmistakable: A few hours after coming in from the rain, your horse’s coat begins to stand up in a peculiar pattern, either bordered by the “drip line” of rain runoff or in patches. As you begin to smooth it down, you feel a radiating heat and your horse flinches from your touch. By the next day, sensitive, tight scabs have appeared where the rain was concentrated on his back and sides, making your horse a miserable mess.”

The best treatment is to wash the horse with antimicrobial and antibacterial shampoos and rinses. The first line of defense for many of our customers: Mane ‘n Tail® Pro-Tect® Antimicrobial OTC products.

Large animal veterinarian, Edgar J. Balliet III, VMD, uses Pro-Tect® Antimicrobial Medicated Shampoo for rain rot. It’s formulated to use regularly to treat existing skin problems or as a preventative. It’s safe to use on cuts, tears and abrasions due to its gentle PH balanced formula. Which makes the Pro-Tect® line a must have for your equine first aid kit!

View locations where you can purchase Mane ‘n Tail® Pro-Tect® Antimicrobial products.

Horse Grooming Tip: When you’re brushing the fetlocks, inspect the horse’s back to make sure there isn’t any fungus or rain rot in that area. If you notice any, immediately begin the appropriate treatment. Read more.

Connect with Mane ‘n Tail!