Equine Dermatology in Palm City, FL
The South Florida environment poses some unique challenges for equine dermatology due to its hot and humid climate. At Harbour Ridge Equine, our veterinarians are skilled in diagnosing and treating all aspects of dermatological problems your horse may be experiencing, from allergies and infections to stubborn summer sores.
request an appointmentCommon Equine Skin Conditions
Some common skin conditions include dermatitis, bacterial and fungal infections, and environmental and food allergies. Horses in Florida are also frequently affected by insect bite hypersensitivity, rain rot, and scratches (pastern dermatitis), all of which thrive in warm, wet conditions.
Diagnostic Procedures
To get to the root of a skin problem, our veterinarians use diagnostic procedures such as skin scraping, serum allergy testing, and fungal and bacterial cultures. Identifying the exact cause allows us to choose targeted treatment rather than guessing.
Summer Sores
Summer sores are another very common dermatological issue horse owners face in South Florida. These non-healing wounds develop when stomach worm larvae are deposited by flies on moist areas or existing wounds. At Harbour Ridge Equine, we offer fly-controlled, air-conditioned boarding for the management and care of challenging summer sore cases. Some sores may require debridement or removal through our equine surgery services, and a targeted deworming plan through our preventative medicine program helps reduce risk.
Treatment and Long-Term Management
Treatment may include topical and systemic medications, wound care, allergy management, and environmental changes such as improved fly control. Horses with allergies often benefit from ongoing management plans that adapt to the season. Our air-conditioned stabling provides a cool, fly-controlled space for horses that need intensive care. Skin problems around the eyes may also call for our ophthalmology services.
Equine Dermatology FAQs
My horse gets itchy every summer. How can we find out what’s causing it?
Itching can have several causes, including allergies, dermatitis, and skin infections. We can examine your horse and recommend testing when needed to help guide treatment.
Could a wound that won’t heal be a summer sore?
It could be, or it could be something more sinister. Summer sores are a common concern in South Florida, and a wound that persists or worsens should be examined. We also offer fly-controlled, air-conditioned boarding for challenging summer sore cases.
What causes summer sores?
Summer sores are caused by stomach worm larvae deposited by flies onto moist areas of the body or existing wounds, causing a non-healing, often itchy sore.
Can my horse be tested for allergies?
Yes. We offer serum allergy testing to help identify environmental and food allergens that may be affecting your horse.
How can I tell if my horse has a fungal or bacterial skin infection?
Crusting, hair loss, scabs, or oozing can point to infection. Skin scrapings and cultures help us determine the cause and the right treatment.
How can I help prevent skin problems in the Florida climate?
Good fly control, keeping horses clean and dry, regular grooming, and prompt attention to wounds can help reduce skin problems.
Why do some horses need boarding for summer sores?
Fly-controlled, air-conditioned boarding protects the wound from further fly exposure and allows intensive treatment and monitoring for difficult cases.
Get Relief for Your Horse’s Skin Problems
If your horse is itchy, losing hair, or has a sore that won’t heal, call Harbour Ridge Equine at (561) 744-9026 to schedule a dermatology exam.