Itchy Horse

“The Itchy Horse” Webinar with Dr. Tina Baxter

Written by dermcareadmin on . Posted in Equine Care, News, Pet Care.

Dermcare-Vet recently hosted an equine dermatology webinar, “The Itchy Horse,” presented by Dr. Tina Baxter. Dr Tina shared many of her “Two-cent Tips for Totally Talented Equine Vets” that she has developed from being both a lecturer at Uni Vets Camden and clinician. The session focused on helping veterinarians and equine professionals diagnose, understand and manage itchy horses. Her simple yet powerful strategies highlight a distinctive ability to bridge the gap between ideal treatment protocols and real-world clinical application, helping clinicians achieve effective outcomes for their itchy horse patients

At Dermcare-Vet, we believe that better education leads to better patient outcomes. Webinars like “The Itchy Horse” form part of our ongoing commitment to supporting veterinarians and vet nurses with continuing professional development in veterinary dermatology.

This webinar along with other resources are available in the Vet Section of our website.

If you are a veterinarian and would like the log in details for the Vet Section, please contact your local territory representative or the Dermcare-Vet head office.

Horse Coat and Skin Care

Horse Coat and Skin Care: Essential Tips for a Healthy, Shiny Horse

Written by dermcareadmin on . Posted in Dermcare Products, Equine Care, News.

Horse Coat and Skin Care: Essential Tips for a Healthy, Shiny Horse

A shiny, healthy coat is more than just a sign of a well-groomed horse—it reflects overall health and proper care. With the right grooming habits, targeted treatments, and good nutrition, you can keep your horse’s skin and coat in top condition all year round. Here’s how to get started.

Daily Grooming Matters

Consistent grooming helps remove dirt and loose hair while distributing natural oils that keep the coat shiny. A few minutes each day with a curry comb and stiff-bristled brush not only enhances coat health but also allows you to check for skin issues like scabs, bites, or irritation. Use soft brushes or mitts for the face and sensitive areas.

Bathing: Keep It Gentle and Targeted

While horses don’t need frequent baths, the occasional wash—especially after exercise or during warmer months—can support skin health and comfort. Always use equine-specific shampoos that are gentle and pH-balanced.

Dermcare’s veterinary-grade products, such as Aloveen Oatmeal Shampoo or Natural Shampoo, are excellent choices. These formulations help cleanse the coat without stripping natural oils, and are ideal for horses with sensitive or itchy skin. Rinse thoroughly to remove all residue, which can cause irritation or dryness if left behind.

Common Skin Conditions and How to Manage Them

Several skin conditions can affect horses, particularly in warm, humid, or insect-prone environments. Keep an eye out for signs such as itching, hair loss, scabs, flaking, or irritated skin.

One of the most common problems is sweet itch— caused by allergic reactions to midge bites. Equicort® is a prescription product for the reduction of lesions and pruritus associated with equine Culicoides spp. bite hypersensitivity (Queensland Itch/Sweet Itch) in horses. For more information and to see if this product is right for your horse contact your local veterinarian.

To help prevent insect-related problems, use Permoxin Insecticidal Spray. This long-lasting, water-resistant treatment repels flies, mosquitoes, and biting insects effectively. Combined with fly sheets and good paddock hygiene, Permoxin can help manage insect exposure throughout the warmer months.

Nutrition and Coat Health

What your horse eats plays a big role in skin and coat condition. A balanced diet is the best way to maintain healthy skin and promote a natural gloss shine all year round.

Keep Rugs and Equipment Clean

Blanketing your horse correctly protects the coat from sun damage and environmental wear. Always use clean, well-fitting rugs made from breathable materials. Dirty or ill-fitting rugs can trap sweat and bacteria against the skin, leading to irritation or fungal infections.

Clean your grooming tools, saddle pads, and tack regularly to avoid the spread of bacteria and fungi, especially if your horse has a known skin issue.

Conclusion

Caring for your horse’s coat and skin doesn’t need to be complicated—it just needs consistency. By grooming daily, using trusted products like Dermcare’s shampoos, and managing common skin conditions with solutions like EquiCort and Permoxin, you’ll help your horse stay comfortable, healthy, and glowing all year round.