After extreme wet weather, countless yards are trying to cope with muddy conditions with a large amount of rain nationwide leaving us paddling in the mud at the yard and in fields which have already suffered significant damage. More importantly than struggling around in our wellies some equine owners are having to deal with skin conditions developed by our horses and ponies as a result of the boggy conditions. Skin Problems Mud related skin conditions known as pastern dermatitis, mud rash or mud fever occurs in horses and ponies alike and is often associated with equines standing in mud and wet conditions. Mud caused skin conditions can range from mild skin irritation to painful infected sores which can cause swelling in the limb and lameness. The bacteria which results in a skin conditions can be such as Dermatophilus congolensis, Staphylococci or Streptococci which resides in soil as spores and becomes active in wet weather. The bacterial and fungal organisms can lead to painful sores and scabs developing, most commonly affecting the pastern and heel area of the equine. The bacteria can enter the body through small cuts which can result from the wind and rain softening the skin. Treatment Treatment of mud induced conditions involves minimising exposure to mud, removing and cleaning any scabs or lesions and keeping the limbs as dry as possible. Stabling horses on clean, dry bedding and clipping around the lesions can help alongside using a medicated spray or cream and a health supplement. Mud Manager brought to you by Scientific Nutritional Products can help to improve your equine's skin and coat condition and is ideal for Cracked and Sore Skin. Helping mud related conditions from the inside out, Mud Manager contains Zinc, MSM, Biotin, Methionine, Protein and Omega-3 . Mud Manager soothes cracked and sore skin and encourages natural regeneration of skin and hair in the affected area. Mud Manager can be purchased online from www.horsesupplementsdirect.co.uk or for more information contact our nutritional specialist Peter Fishpool on FREEPHONE 0800 032 7774 or 01377 254900
