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Best Fly Masks and Sheets for Horses Table of Contents Why do I need a Fly Mask for my Horse? Fly sheets and masks are an effective way to keep flies from landing on and biting your horse. There are four main types of flies that affect equines: horse flies, deer flies, stable flies, and house flies. Physical barriers, such as sheets and masks, are one way to dissuade insects from bothering your horse. Chemical barriers and environmental controls should be utilized in conjunction for the best overall defense against biting insects. Can Flies Harm my Horse? Insect control is...

Mallenders and Sallenders Table of Contents What are Mallenders and Sallenders? Mallenders and sallenders is a little-known condition affecting draft breeds, specifically those with feathering on their legs. Hyperkeratosis, or over-production of keratin, causes thickened scabs to appear on the back of the knee and the front of the hock joints. These scabs can crack, causing painful sores that are at risk of secondary infection. While there is no cure, mallenders and sallenders can be treated. How Mallenders and Sallenders affect Horses Many people have never heard of mallenders and sallenders. These two similar-sounding words are from the 1700-1900’s and...

Horse Dandruff Table of Contents Why does my horse have dandruff? Dandruff in horses is a relatively common, usually cosmetic condition in which dry skin flakes off. There are two main types of dandruff in horses: dry and oily. Dry dandruff is more common in the mane and tail (similar to the dandruff you may see in a person’s scalp) while oily dandruff is usually observed on the extremities—the cannon bone, elbows, and hocks. Dandruff can be caused by a variety of factors. It is important to diligently observe your horse in order to find and treat the root cause....

Hair Loss in Horses Table of Contents Is my Horse going Bald? Hair loss in horses is a symptom of another issue. Understanding the biology of the horse is helpful in determining the root cause. Careful observation can provide clues to the problem. Often, insect activity can be to blame, but certain bacteria, fungi, or tumors can also cause hair loss. It’s always a good idea to work with a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan. Why do horses lose their hair? Hair loss is a symptom, not a disease. To start, it helps to...

Cannon Crud What is Cannon Crud? Cannon crud goes by many names but is the same condition—a waxy, greasy appearance on the front of the rear cannon bones. The exact cause has not been determined. Diagnosis is visual, and there are many methods to treat it but no actual cure. The good news? Cannon crud is generally cosmetic in nature and does not actually bother your horse. Cannon Crud is also known as... Cannon crud has a lot of other names; stud crud, “leg funk,” urine scald…all of these refer to the same condition.  But the cannon crud does have...