AboutToni Yates Expertise I can answer general questions about the miniature horse breed- care, temperament, conformation, breeding and normal health questions but I am not a vet.
Experience I have bred and raised miniature horses for about 4 years and currently own 6 (with another one on the way). A good friend has been breeding and training them for over 10 years and is my source for information that I don't have.
Organizations AMHR, AMHA, AQHA, PHBA and the Virginia Miniature Horse Club.
Education/Credentials I have attended seminars and training sessions. I have done a lot of research and have a reference library on the Miniature Horse Breed.
Awards and Honors My daughter and my horses have participated in various competitions and shows on the local and state level and we have numerous ribbons as well as champion and reserve championship trophies.
Expert: Toni Yates Date: 4/11/2008 Subject: Pregnant Mare Loosing Hair
Question Toni, I have a 9 year old sorrel mare who is due to foal May 1st. She is pastured with her yearling filly and 2 pigmy goats. She has recently been vaccinated, wormed and given a vitamin shot. My question is she is itching and rolling and has bare patches of thinning hair where she is rubbing. She has what appears to be alot of white dandruff down in her hair, not lice. What do you think is causing this and do I need to apply anything or wait until after she foals. Thanks for your help.
Answer Hi Patty-
Thanks for the question. Without seeing her it would be hard to tell. It sounds to me like one of several possibilities: hormonal changes due to the pregancy (it can happen with horses just as with people), dry skin (perhaps because of hormonal changes), a seasonal or environmental allergy or just plain shedding out. You may want to check with your vet but I believe I would try treating it topically with something like Tea Tree Oil or M-T-G rather than anything systemic so she's not stressed out with the itching. Hope this helps. Best, Toni
