Sometimes general hair loss is a natural response to better nutrition; however, it would not be hair loss only in certain areas or loss to the point that skin is exposed, etc. If that is the case, or if the skin appears irritated, the hair loss could be some type of dermatitis or rain rot. It would be best to have a veterinarian take a look at the horses. If it is rain rot, it is caused by the bacterial organism Dermatophilus congolensis. In order for a horse to get rain rot, several conditions have to exist. This bacteria is commonly found in the environment, especialy humid environments. Horses that have heavy hair coats keep the moisture in contact with their skin, which helps the spores grow. And if the skin has been damaged from an insect bite, cut, or scrape that lets the organism get down into the epidermis. Use an iodine soap that lathers well. With gloves on, lather the horse well and try to break the scabs off, which is painful to the horse. Getting the scabs off to let the air get to the ulcerated areas is the most important part, and it is the most difficult because the horse resists it. Since it is painful, sometimes it takes a couple of days working a little at a time. Other things that can be used are povidone-iodine (Betadine) or Chlorhexadine. Any one of them should be applied daily for five days. Applying lime to the affected area after washing will aid in healing. Then try to keep the area dry.

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