Dermatology

Skin disease in horses ranges from mild irritations to chronic, performance‑limiting conditions. At Mission Equine we evaluate skin problems with a focused history and hands‑on exam, using diagnostics such as cytology, skin scrapings, fungal culture, bacterial culture and sensitivity, and skin biopsy when needed. We can submit skin biopsies to a board‑certified veterinary pathologist for histopathology and a definitive diagnosis. Treatment combines targeted medical therapy, topical care, and environmental or management changes to prevent recurrence.

Common regional concerns (Santa Barbara / Southern California)

• Allergic dermatitis and insect hypersensitivity: Seasonal “sweet itch” from culicoides and other biting insects causes intense itching, hair loss, and self‑trauma. Fly control, topical therapies, and environmental changes are key.
• Sunburn and photosensitivity: Light‑colored and thin‑haired areas are prone to sunburn and photosensitization during bright coastal summers; topical sunscreens, flymasks, and shade help prevent damage.
• Rain‑ and mud‑associated dermatitis: Prolonged wet conditions lead to bacterial or fungal skin infections, especially in folds and creased areas; keeping horses dry and prompt topical/systemic treatment reduces chronic problems.
• Ringworm and fungal infections: Common in young horses or those in close housing; diagnosis by culture or biopsy guides antifungal therapy and isolation protocols.

• Parasitic skin disease and mange: Mite infestations produce intense itching and hair loss; diagnosis by scrapings and targeted parasiticides are typically effective.

• Localized irritation and superficial infections can also result from tack rub or shared tack between horses. Management includes identifying and removing the irritant, topical treatment to reduce inflammation and infection, and cleaning or adjusting tack or padding to prevent recurrence.

Grey horses and melanomas

• Melanomas are common in aging grey horses and usually appear as firm, often pigmented masses around the tail, perineum, parotid region, and eyelids. Many are benign and slow‑growing, but some may become locally invasive or affect organ function.

When to seek veterinary care

• Rapidly spreading skin lesions, severe itching, draining wounds, large or changing masses, hair loss with crusting, or lesions that don’t improve with basic care warrant veterinary evaluation.

If your horse is struggling with skin disease, especially recurring or region‑specific issues like ventral midline dermatitis, we’ll create a diagnostic and treatment plan tailored to the cause and your management needs.