Why daily hands-on grooming can spot early health and hoof issues In a world of thermography scans, digital lameness detectors, and ever-expanding supplements, it’s easy to overlook the most basic tool in equine care: your hands. But experienced horsemen have long known that grooming isn’t just about shine, it’s about surveillance. Done properly and consistently, daily…
By Hannah Botha, MSc Equine Science, Epol Nutrition Advisor Aloe vera is certainly not a new addition to the management of horses, and for many years it has been used topically for ailments such as inflamed or burnt skin. More recently, aloe vera has come into focus for treating common conditions such as gastric ulcers. But…
Q: How often should you ideally bathe your horse? A: There isn't really a clear answer to this question, but one thing is for sure - you should be bathing your horse as infrequently as you can. Your horse's coat is full of naturally occurring oils that protect the skin and keep it healthy. Some of these…
Q: My mare has dry skin and is constantly scratching. I've tried coconut oil, tea tree oil, and a cortisone injection from the vet but nothing seems to help. What else can I try? A: Before you try another cream or ointment it is very important to find out what the reason is for the dry…
Want to know more about ringworm? Like the fact that it isn’t actually caused by a worm but by a fungus? Then, check out this article on ringworm in our equine friends.
Q: What are mud fever and rain scald? Are they the same thing? Answered by Farryn Day Both mud fever and rain scald are caused by a bacteria, which is commonly found in the soil and on the skin. The bacteria only becomes a problem if it gains access to softened or damaged skin. As the bacteria…
Q: What is ringworm? Ringworm is, in fact, not caused by a worm, instead, by a fungus that infects the roots of hairs. The hairs of the horse will generally fall out in tufts, producing small bare patches, which are commonly circular in shape (hence the name 'ringworm'). The horse may have one or two bare…
Q: Why is linseed oil the new thing to feed? Asked by Erin Booth A: Oils have been available on the equine market for years now, yet there is still some confusion over which oil to use. While there is technically no ‘bad’ oil, there may be some that are better options for your horse than others.…
Q: What are the signs of dehydration? A: Dehydration is a serious threat to your horse's well-being, as this loss of water also means the loss essential minerals such as sodium and potassium. In serious cases, if the horse is not quickly rehydrated, it could lead to colic, kidney failure, cardiac problems and even death. A horse's…
[Q] Why is linseed oil the new thing to feed? [A] Oils have been available on the equine market for years now, yet there is still some confusion over which oil to use. While there is technically no 'bad' oil, there may be some that are better options for your horse than others. The reason for…

