Streptothricosis, or rain scald, thrives in humid conditions, causing scabs that are painful to remove, says Kim Dyson.
Rain scald is a skin disease in horses caused by Dermatophilus congolensis, which favours warm, damp conditions. The infection is not dangerous, but it is uncomfortable and unsightly. It is wise not to put a saddle or anything on the horse that can rub, as this will be extremely painful for the animal.
D. congolensis is an actinomycetes, which behaves like both a bacterium and a fungus. It can be spread by blankets, bandages, brushes and saddles that are used on several horses. Moreover, some horses can carry the disease without showing symptoms, so the infection can be spread without your knowing it.
This story is from the Farmer's Weekly 18 August 2017 edition of Farmer's Weekly.
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This story is from the Farmer's Weekly 18 August 2017 edition of Farmer's Weekly.
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