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About Shelley Evans
Expertise
I would be happy to respond to enquiries in the following disciplines: dressage, working western, hunter, halter (open and IAHA), hack and pleasure. I can also offer assistance with schooling and equitation issues.

Experience
Twenty years Class A show circuit including multiple championships.

Organizations
CEF, IAHA, BCHC, IALHA

Publications
Inside International

Education/Credentials
BA, MEd, Teaching Certificate (PDP), CEF Western Level I Coach, provincialy approved Hack, Equitation and Western Judge.

 
   

You are here:  Experts > Sports > Horse Racing > Horses > Tail Rot?

Topic: Horses



Expert: Shelley Evans
Date: 6/25/2008
Subject: Tail Rot?

Question
My old 20+ mare seems to have tail rot. What can I do? I have used iodine and Blu-Kote on it so far. She has bare patches  under her tail and the hide is coming off with the hair. I have cleaned it with warm water and soap, then combed it, coated it with iodine first and then with the Blue-Kote. Will these scaly areas stop spreading? She is the only horse I have. I hope it is not the mange!
HelP!
there are no equine vets in the area I live, I would have to travel many, many miles and a few hours to get to one and I have no trailer.

Answer
D4ar Jennifer,
I am sorry this response is so late. I responded at work and it must have not been sent. Anyway  if you're using iodine, I hope it is VERY VERY VERY dilute- as iodine will burn and create more of a problem that you already have. She may have sweet itch. I would however, take some digital photos of the affected area and e-mail them to your closest equine vet. While not idea;, he or she may be able to offer you some clinical advice. In the meanwhile, I would soak the area in warm water and gently remove any scabs- organisms can hide under scabs so any medication you use won't be affecting them. Then I would soap the area with betatine (an iodine based surgical scrub) leave it on for five minutes then thoroughly rinse. See if you can buy some Hibitane antibiotic cram- it is non greasy and more like a lotion- allowing air to get at the area.
I hope this helps,
S. Evans

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