Friction is what leads to saddle sores under a driving harness. They resemble blisters that develop from wearing uncomfortable shoes. The sores could be brought on by dirty equipment, which grinds dirt into the skin of the horse and accumulates grime and sweat. Saddle sores may result from chafing caused by tack that is overly tight, rigid, or inflexible. Occasionally, a burr or wood chip may become caught between the horse’s equipment and itself and produce chafing. Some horses with delicate skin are more prone to girth and saddle sores and need special attention. Continue reading to learn how to get rid of saddle sores on horses.
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Symptoms Of Saddle Sores
Depending on how inflamed, open, and blister-like they are, saddle soars and girth galls can either look like minor rubs where only the hair is absent or quite noticeable wounds. It’s possible that the hair won’t come off with rubbing, and the gall or sore will appear as a bloated lump beneath the skin. Leaving the skin and underlying muscle untreated might result in irreversible harm and scarring.
Causes Of Saddle Sores
Saddle and tack that are not properly fitting rub on the skin where they come into contact, leading to abrasions and sores as a result. Other contributing factors include uneven pressure from the rider on the horse, a rider who constantly shifts from side to side, an incorrect riding stance, and a saddle blanket that has been contaminated with debris.
How To Get Rid Of Saddle Sores On Horses
Saddle sores are easily treated by getting rid of the part of the tack that is rubbing the skin raw. While the wounds heal, rest your horse’s back by removing the saddle. Wounds are treated with supplemental care, the same as other dermatosis-related problems.
Apply saline solution with a sponge to an open sore, then cover it with a calming lotion or ointment. Calendula or aloe vera-infused creams and lotions are popular. A purple gentian spray alternative is possible. For the best advice on what would be best for your horse, please consult your veterinarian. The major objective is to maintain the area’s cleanliness and the skin’s health. The use of diapers or zinc oxide cream can also be soothing and healing.
Final Thoughts On How To Get Rid Of Saddle Sores On Horses
Keep your equipment tidy. A horse’s skin may get irritated and painful by a buildup of sweat and grit. Tree branches, grinding, seeds, or other foreign items might get stuck between the horse and its equipment when you are trail riding. Check the condition of your gear frequently because leather and string girths or cinches can get stiff with wear and create uneven rubbing or pinching.