RAIN ROT
Cutaneous Streptithricosis, Rain Scold, Dew Poisoning, Mud Fever...and More
An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure!
This organized prevention transformed the attitudes of Colonial America, and the concepts it introduced persist today. When Franklin watched men apply themselves with vigilance to the hard work of conquering a spreading fire but unable to prevail in their resolution, he realized the wasted effort was not from a lack of will, but a lack of knowledge, organization and skill. We need to be prepared, organized and able to respond to the situations we inadvertently inflict upon ourselves. The best intentions do not alleviate problems nor mitigate loss. Preparation does, so today "an Ounce of Prevention is still worth a Pound of Cure".
Take the time it takes to learn and become prepared, so that in the end maybe you will spend less time actually resolving the issue. Efforts should be placed into prevention, of problems, but if and when a circumstance arises, you will be prepared to direct your time to applying educated solutions if you have previously acquired the necessary knowledge and skill for implementing them. This blog was inspired by a barn mate's horse who has undergone a severe rain rot condition that has waxed and waned for quite some time now. The owner of the horse did bathe and apply a few over the counter products, but the ailment continued and the diseased horse experienced discomfort and the possibility remained that the disorder could spread to other horses. After making daily visits to the boarding facility, one begins to realize the effectiveness of the barn manager or owner to provide for the welfare of the horses under their care. If they and their staff have a shortage of knowledge and training, they will be unable to offer professional advice. Sadly, this lack of concern for the horses also reveals a lack of will to acquire the necessary skills to promote healthy conditions at the facility. However, one must understand the responsibility for the horse is placed in the hands of its owner. Taking notice of the deficiencies of both the ownership and management in dealing with this situation, and out of empathy for the afflicted horse as well as the others on the property, I researched this skin disease in hopes of finding answers that could benefit all.
The information gathered was typed and placed on the bulletin board. Using the diseased horse as the author, and directing it to the other horses at the facility; it covered information on the prevention, treatments and how uncomfortable and contagious the disease can be. This story line opened eyes at the barn. It was written not to condemn, but on how everyone can help with awareness and how they can prepare for and possibly prevent this disease. As of this blog, the skin aliment on the said horse is being treated regularly by its owner and other boarders are now conscious and hold some knowledge of this common contagious situation.
Diseases caused by the microorganism dermatophilus congolensis:
- rain scald
- rain rot
- cutaneous streptithricosis
- dew poisoning
- mud fever
- mud rash
- muck itch
- scratches
- grease or greasy heel
- cracked heel
- strawberry foot rot
Causes
This disease is caused by the organism dermatophilus congolensis. The natural habitat of D congolensis is unknown, but it is believed to be present in soil. It has been found in the living layers of the skin of mammals who may be chronically infected, but show no symptoms. Some may consider this pathogen a fungus because it appears and multiplies during warm, damp conditions when high temperature and high humidity are present. However, dermatophilus congolensis is not a fungus, but a facultative anaerobic actinomycete, which has both bacterial and fungal like characteristics.
Seen worldwide but more prevalent in the tropics, this infection of the epidermis is one of the most common skin problems seen in horses. Age, sex, color, and breed do not seem to affect host susceptibility, however, it is more common in the young, animals chronically exposed to moisture, animals with non-pigmented skin, and those that are immune suppressed. Theoretically, from the soil the microorganism attaches to the living layers of the epidermis, where it can exist in a dormant form until infection is exacerbated by damaged skin and environmental conditions.
The skin is a protective barrier for the susceptible systems that lie underneath and if this layer is compromised, conditions are favorable for the establishment of infection and possibly a subsequent disease. Dermatophilus congolensis must reach a skin site where the natural protective barriers are reduced or deficient and penetrate the surface. This condition can only be established if the horse has pre existing lesions, or the skin's normal protective barrier is reduced or deficient in some way. It is attracted to the carbon dioxide environment of damaged skin thus preferring areas which are non-oxygenated, dark and moist. Once embedded, threadlike filaments branch out and then segment into spherical packets. These cells mature to become zoospores (a spore of some algae and fungi that is capable of independent movement) germinate to produce hypha, which spread in all directions from the initial focus.The dense population of zoospores produces a high concentration of carbon dioxide. This process accelerates their release to the skin surface therefore, the cycle of the zoospore is then completed; lying, waiting for the next perfect condition. When the microorganism attacks the surface of the skin, this penetration causes an inflammatory reaction. The body's response of matted tufts of hair covering small to large areas are usually felt through palpation or can be visibly seen. The lesions can be acute or chronic and vary in appearance. From small to large 1/4" crusts; both are embedded with hair. Usually, horses with long coats have large matted patch-like crusty areas while horses with shorter coats have dozens of tiny scabs and bumps. Under the scab is a thin layer of pus. In most acute infections, the long strands of cells that invade the epidermis will usually cease in 2-3 weeks with the lesions healing spontaneously and without scar formation. In these cases, the infections usually have little effect on general health. However, affected hair follicles and scabs are sites from which intermittent invasions of non-infected hair follicles and epidermis can occur, resulting in spreading creating large body areas to be affected. Therefore, it is possible for this condition to worsen, where often the horse will lose condition. Lameness can occur and the horse's perception through its senses can be mired considerably.
More Information on the Disease
Threadlike zoospores which travel by spontaneous movement can be released and transmitted from horse to horse and even to humans. Only a few cases have been reported in humans - wear gloves when treating horses and wash hands thoroughly.
Dermatophilus congolensis needs a weakened or damaged skin structure (non pigmented skin, a wound, sun burn, sore, waterlogged skin, or from biting insects etc.) in order to become and remain established.
Moisture enhances the proliferation and release of zoospores.Therefore, keeping the infected areas as clean and dry as possible, and the infected area open, allowing air to the affected areas is important. Let the air flow and the sunshine in!
No covering pads, bandages, or salves should be used on infected sites for long periods of time. All of these things would tend to cut off fresh oxygen supplies to the skin's surface.
Horses have skin oils all over their body. These oils are essential for optimal health and can be removed if a horse is placed in wet, humid or muddy environments. Also, unnecessary, repeated baths will strip these oils from the horse allowing skin to become dry and chapped. These risk along with other factors including allergies, abrasive dust or sand, or bacterial infections can increase the possibilities of dermatophilus congolensis being contracted.
Conditions that compromise the natural barrier of the skin can directly influence the development of this disease.
Natural resistance is common in many horses, however for those who's immune system is not developed or functioning properly, which can be from improper nutrietion, improper living conditions and or abusive methods of handling or riding, and if the infection gets established, there is little immunity.
Similar in appearance, but a more serious condition called chronic progressive lymphedema can occur in draft horses, particularly Clydesdales, Shires, and Belgians. This condition appears to be genetically-linked, starting early in life and progressing, causing thickening, fibrosis, and predisposing to secondary infections. This disease can progress enough to require euthanasia.
Generally, horses with white markings or non-pigmented skin tend to be more prone to the condition. This disease is difficult for the horse especially if the infection is located on any moving area such as the feet, lips, and muzzle. Knowledge and persistence from the horse handler will be required to treat the affected horse.
Areas Affected
Depending on your geographic location or where the organism takes hold on the horse influences what name it is given.
Rain Scold / Rain Rot
Forms along the neck, back and croup (top line), tips of the horse's ears, around the eyes and muzzle. Usually intensified from exposure to prolonged periods of rain.
Dew Poisoning / Mud Fever / Muck Itch / Mud Rash / Scratches / Grease or Greasy Heel / Cracked Heel / Strawberry Foot Rot
Appears on the lower limbs, behind the fetlock or pastern area and can progress upwards toward the belly area. Skin is aggravated from standing in waterlogged or muddy paddocks.
Symptoms
Signs involve inflammation with hairs matted and or lesions. These lesions can be hot with epidermal cracks which lead to crust and or scab formation. Hair often starts falling out and there may be a secretion. If the follicle has been damaged, the hair will grow back white. Areas are tender to the touch and if the legs are affected, lameness can occur.
Small lumps or scabs on the horses’ skin cause the hair to stand upright often resembling paint-brush effects.
Large crust-like patches of scabs or dozens of tiny scabs.
Management
Watch your property. Preventative action should be taken as soon as pastures start to become wet and muddy. Rotation of pastures will keep them with grass and eliminating wear causing erosion. This will reduce horses from having to stand in wet, muddy ground when rain arrives. Proper management to keep stalls clean and dry and to provide adequate ventilation in all shelter areas for horse.
Remove horse from all wet conditions.
Epidemics usually occur during the wet spring months.
The disease is usually associated with prolonged wet weather, but any type of horse in any climate condition can get the disease. The prevalence of improper care will influence the development and transmission of dermatophilosis. A management program that supplies proper care and nutrition is important. This program should provide the horse with all the elements needed to sustain a healthy life. Some professionals believe horses with insufficient nutrients, such as copper are the ones that contract the disease. A horse cannot keep their immune system fully functional without adequate copper levels. Therefore, this deficiency is the beginning of the host's susceptibility while the environment is just the final catalyst.
Remove equipment that may rub and irritate your horse’s skin.
Consult your veterinarian.
Biting insects contribute indirectly to the spread of dermatophilus congolensis by transmitting the organism from an infected horse to another horse. Use fly spray on your horse...See Horse Pest Control and Part B.
Isolating clinically affected horses and controlling pathogens are methods used to break the infective cycle. See..Spring Clean Your Barn and Disinfect Your Barn.
Sharing grooming supplies, other stable appliances, scratching areas and the hands of the horse-handler can all serve as carriers of pathogens from one individual to another. Proper general hygiene steps should be taken to limit cross-contamination. Dermatophilus congolensis can spread by simple contact with anything contaminated by an infected horse. Prevention is a must. After each use, disinfect any equipment shared between horses and surfaces the horses may contact, this is to include the handler; pay close attention to cleaning your hands. If responsible for the care of several horses, always treat an infected horse last!
Outbreaks usually occur on farms with previously affected horses.
Grooming
Good management is vital and each day the horse should be checked for signs of cracked skin, tufted hair, infection or any other unusual condition. Run your hands over your horse's body. Look for anything abnormal. Complete Grooming Tips - See...Grooming, Behaviors.
Prepare for Treatment / Shampoo
Heavy coats that are so necessary in colder temperatures or feathers associated with many draft horses retain moisture and are the perfect breeding ground for the disease. If the disease is present, removal of the heavy hair or feathering on the infected areas will be necessary to keep areas clean and dry.
Use warm water and wash the infected area with a mild *antibacterial, antibiotic and or antiseptic solution or shampoo. Products containing chlorhexidine, phenol, or benzoyl peroxide (Betadine / Nolvasan) are recommended and should be continued 3 days a week until clear. Lather the horse and let sit for 10 minutes allowing the agents to combat the pathogen and to moisten the scabs. With your fingernails, gently remove all the scabs which formed as the body reacted to the organism; this may take a few sessions, over a few days. Expose the pinkish skin below so that air can assist in preventing the sores from progressing and also enabling them to heal. When removing the scabs some hair will come with them and proper disposal should be conducted. Scabs are a source of contamination and this will help reduce exposure. Dry the horse carefully and completely after scab removal. This is a good time to mosey with your horse to a sunny location and let the sun and air help dry up this condition. These areas should always be kept clean and dry. See below for remedies and herbal suggestions.
* Topical applications of lime sulfur may be used, consult your vet.
Treatment
With all the names this disease carries, the symptoms retain a common thread of unsightly scabs and hair loss. The treatment for the condition is basically the same and one should return the horse's skin to as normal a condition as possible. This with proper care in turn will promote optimum health and immunity.
Removing the horse from wet and muddy areas along with keeping the horse clean and dry are the initial steps in treatment. A horse should have adequate ventilation at all times. Sometimes in acute cases, horses naturally rid the disease, however, this condition can interfere with use and be painful for your horse and it can spread quickly leading to a more serious issue. Once this disease starts attacking the skin of your horse, treatment needs to commence eliminating the possibility of a secondary infection such as staphylococcus (staph), and streptococcus (strep). Always consult your vet if any unusual conditions are evident.
Conventional Medicine
1.)
D congolensis is susceptible to a wide range of antimicrobials (a substance that kills or inhibits the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, or protozoans). Here are some:
erythromycin
spiramycin
penicillin G
ampicillin
chloramphenicol
streptomycin
amoxicillin
tetracyclines
novobiocin
Most of the time chronic conditions can be effectively cured with intra muscular injections. A course of injections of procaine penicillin and streptomycin may be administered and if this does not work, the penicillin-streptomycin combination can be continued for 5 days, or a single injection of long-acting oxytetracycline can be substituted.
2.)
A topical solution of gentocin (Gentamicin Sulfate) and tribrissen (common name bactrim) can be prescribed by your vet. Gentocin may not be available in your part of the world.
Herbal Remedies
Herbs may offer relief, usually they are most advantageous as a preventive, in the very early stages of infections, or in chronic conditions. The following herbal suggestions treat the horse externally by killing the infective organisms and internally by boosting the immune system.
Internally:
Both anti-fungal and anti-bacterial enhancing herbs can be given internally to support the immune system and promote healing:
Andrographis
Astragalus
Borage
Bupleurum
Burdock
Dandelion
Echinacea
Hawthorn
Licorice Root
Melilotus
Nettle
Pau d'arco
Poke Root
Rosemary
Stillingia Root
Withania
Yarrow
Herbs rich in sulfur are particularly helpful with this condition:
Cleavers
Calendula
Garlic
Echinacea
Meadowsweet
Nettle
Seaweed
Thyme
Externally:
Externally, the anti-microbial herbs help kill or slow down the infection:
Barberry
Black-eyed Susan
Burdock
Calendula
Chaparral
Clove
Devil's Claw
Garlic
Lomatium
Olive Leaves
Osage Orange leaves
Pau d'arco
Poke Root
Sarsaparilla Root
Smooth Sumac
St.John's Wort
Tea Tree Oil
Yellow Dock
1.)
The above external herb extracts can be used in a warm wash when treating this condition - see "Shampoo" above
2.)
Wash areas with a brew of elder leaves and/or flowers with dock leaves added. Use equal parts of the herbs, two handfuls to a quart of water. A brew of bramble leaves can be used also. Rinse area(s) with cold water and dry well.
3.)
A wash of copper sulfate will help dry up the sores. Mix 1/3 apple cider vinegar, 1/3 copper sulfate with 1/3 water in a squeezable bottle. Shake well. Wash infected areas with mixture; allow to air dry. A teaspoon of copper sulphate can be added into one ration of feed daily for 1 to 2 days. You should notice improvement of the condition within this period.
4.)
Fresh herbs can be applied directly to the area after bruising the leaves of the plant. Spread them onto a piece of cotton or linen and apply directly to area and hold in place with a bandage. Make sure the whole area is clean before applying herbs.
5.)
A topical application of devil's claw mixed with a little calendula cream may be helpful.
6.)
A leg tonic can be used. Finely cut ivy leaves and infuse in vinegar. Soak a rough cloth in liquid. Apply with friction to area. Allow to air dry.
Tincture
1.)
After a gentle shampooing of the affected areas and the scabs have been removed, an alcoholic tincture made from an external anti-fungal/bacterial herb can be rubbed into the skin for a final cleanse. For treatment, apply the tincture of your choice 2 to 3 times a day, rubbing it into the infected site, followed by air drying. How to make a tincture See...Herbs for My Horses, Their Uses.
2.)
Applying a hypercal solution (a tincture of hypericum (St. John's wort) and calendula) is a soothing and pain relieving remedy. It is also anti bacterial, anti fungal and anti septic offering healing properties for the infection.
To make a hypercal solution dilute 5 drops of hypercal tincture in 2 teaspoons of tepid, boiled water. Use on cotton swabs or cotton wool to clean wounds. A hypercal tincture can be made easily by purchasing calendula tincture and hypericum tincture and mixing equal parts of the two tinctures together. One can also make their own tinctures, See...Herbs for My Horses, Their Uses.
3.)
Adding some DMSO to a tincture made from herbs can equally be used.
Poultice
1.)
A poultice can be used to draw out any pus that is present. Mix cleavers with a medium of slippery elm or powered marshmellow root. Bran can be used in place of slippery elm or powered marshmellow root. Note: it is best to wrap the bran/cleaver mixture in flannel or cotton prior to application.
How to Prepare the Poultice
Use equal amounts of the chosen herb and the medium, add boiling water or hot apple cider vinegar and mix to a paste. Spread the paste onto a piece of cotton, linen or cotton wool, cover the back of the material with plastic and hold into position with wraps. Apply the poultice as hot as possible, taking care not to burn the skin. The morning is a good time to administer this application. When the poultice has cooled remove it. Allow infected areas to air dry. Repeat the process by applying a fresh poultice, usually in the evening. Note if using this recipe. A lot of heat is generated from the combination of herbs. Do not leave on for long periods of time and wait 8 hours before applying another poultice. Horses with sensitive skin must be observed closely for blistering. Only use dried herbs for the poultice.
2.)
A combination of flowers of sulfur and glycerin, mixed into a paste is a remedy used for this condition. Add sufficient glycerin to flowers of sulfur giving it a glossy appearance. Apply this paste at night to the affected areas. Then, in the morning, apply just plain glycerin. This will keep the skin supple (soft and pliant), and at the same time suitable to a healthy action by drawing moisture.
More on Poultices - See...Herbs for My Horses, Their Uses and Horse Grooming, Behaviors
Home / Economical Remedies
1.)
Shampoo the affected areas with either of the following products and make sure the areas dry completely before you are finished. Both are great.
• Head and Shoulders
• Excalibur sheath cleaner
2.)
Use equal parts of:
• Listerine (generic is fine)
• baby oil
• human hair conditioner
Mix into a squirt bottle, then squirt on and rub into the affected area daily. Do not rinse off. It is best to wash the area first but it will work even if you do not. Repeat process daily until gone.
3.)
Use equal parts of:
• Listerine (generic is fine)
• water
• baby oil
Mix in a spray bottle. Just shake it up, spray it on, rub it in, and you are done.
4.)
Use equal parts of:
• iodine
• tea tree oil - good for many fungal issues
Mix into a squirt bottle, then squirt on and rub into the affected area daily. Do not rinse off. It is best to wash the area first but it will work even if you do not. Repeat process daily until gone. WEAR GLOVES!
5.)
You can use original Pine-Sol for rain rot. Dilute it JUST enough to turn it white, put it in a squirt bottle and soak the scabs and hair around the scabs only. The scabs will dry and fall off within a week or so.
6.)
• take a bottle of hydrogen peroxide
• mix with ½ bottle of iodine
• add ½ to ¾ bottle of baby or mineral oil
Shake well and keep shaking as you use it to keep it all mixed up. WEAR GLOVES! Put a bit on a clean new sponge (for smaller areas use a cotton square) and sponge it onto each affected area. Leave on for half an hour to 45 minutes and then wash with an iodine shampoo. Not all of the mixture will come off because of the oil, but with one application, you should really see a difference. You can omit hydrogen peroxide from this application, but the results will vary.
Variation:
• 1 part hydrogen peroxide to 5 parts water
Note: hydrogen peroxide will bleach hair
7.)
1 part bleach to 10 parts water. Mix in squirt bottle and apply to infected areas with a rag.
Note: bleach is bleach and it will bleach hair
8.)
Keep infected areas clipped short. Wash legs with Hibitane soap, then towel dry completely, this is critical. Always keep a supply of clean barn towels on hand. Spray legs with a combination of rubbing alcohol and vetrolin (this closes the pores).
9.)
Wash legs with Hibitane or Chlorexodine soap, then towel dry completely. Apply mineral oil/baby oil to bead off moisture and/or water and mud.
10.)
T-Zone Equine Dermal Care Cream can be applied to infected areas.
11.)
Some conventional practitioners recommend applying a barrier cream to prevent the skin from further moisture. Before applying, remove scabs by shampooing as listed above or by rubbing olive oil on the skin. Massage well to soften and remove the scabs. Wipe off with a paper towel and discard properly. Then mix an antibiotic cream with a hydrocortisone cream for inflammation. Apply this mixture to the infected areas. Cover this mixture with a layer of zinc oxide to provide a skin barrier to prevent and help heal skin irritation.
An antibiotic cream is available generically by the same name. Brand names include:
Neosporin
Nolvasan
Polysporin
A hydrocortisone cream is available generically by the same name.
Brand names include:
Brand names include:
Cortisone
Preparation H
Gold Bond
A zinc oxide cream is available generically by the same name. Brand names include:
Desitin
A+D Ointment
Butt Paste
Remember to properly dispose of infected scabs and materials. Disinfect your equipment and this includes anything you use on an infected horse such as halters, saddle pads and brushes. Favorite rubbing spots like a stall door or fence should also be disinfected.
A solution of 2 tablespoons of Clorox to 1 gallon of water. Do not use this solution on your horse, only on the equipment! More on this...Disinfect Your Barn
Wear disposable gloves and Be sure to wash your hands!
Saving the Best for Last
Prevention:
The horse must always receive the proper care and nutrition required to maintain healthy.
Always supply your horse with mineral supplements, apple cider vinegar and free-choice seaweed meal year-round.
Keep your horse clean and dry.
If mud gets on your horse, allow mud to dry completely and then brush off.
Lightly dilute vinegar with water. Cleanse legs once a week with this solution. This remedy is a great tonic for the tissues also.
If a horse is predisposed to this problem, administering internal herbs at least 4 weeks prior to and throughout the critical wet periods
Unfortunately though, continual washing with harsh chemical products can actually compromise the skin even further, as they strip the hair and skin of essential natural oils which form a protective layer.
Keep pastures cut and dry and always keep your horse dry
Perseverance, patience, proper care and good nutrition are the most effective ways to treat and prevent this disease. Administering treatment to your horse can be complex and should be taken seriously. Assistance should always be obtained by a qualified and experienced professional before undergoing any healing program. They will prescribe the most appropriate solutions/remedies for the individual situation.
Go Green Tips:
Something for Us
- Castor oil and Olive oil are antioxidant rich and combining them will effectively draw out dirt and bacteria from the skin.
Oily Skin:
75% castor oil
25% olive oil
Dry Skin:
25% castor oil
75% olive oil
Mix the recipe according to your skin type. Blend well. Apply to skin and massage. Wash thoroughly.
Note: For a lighter cleanser in warmer months, substitute jojoba oil or grape seed oil in place of olive oil.
Any Go Green Ideas?
Email us: info@agreenhorse.com
I will not change my horse with any that treads but on four pasterns. When I bestride him, I soar, I am a hawk. He trots the air. The earth sings when he touches it.
William Shakespeare, Henry V