The Equine Centre Camden provides professional equine dermatology services for horses with skin, coat and hair conditions. Our experienced equine ambulatory veterinarians offer on-farm care across Greater Sydney, as well as in-hospital assessment and treatment.
Equine dermatology focuses on the diagnosis, treatment and management of skin, coat and hair disorders in horses. These conditions may be infectious, allergic, parasitic, environmental or immune‑mediated and often require veterinary assessment to determine the underlying cause.
Because many skin conditions look similar on the surface, accurate diagnosis is essential to ensure effective treatment and prevent recurrence.
Some skin conditions resolve with basic management, while others require professional diagnosis and treatment. Recognising early warning signs can help prevent deterioration.
Common early indicators include:
More serious signs that require veterinary attention include:
Horses are susceptible to a wide range of dermatological conditions. Accurate diagnosis allows us to tailor treatment and management to each horse and environment.
Allergic skin disease occurs when horses react to insect bites or environmental allergens, often leading to intense itching, rubbing and skin trauma. Without management, secondary infections can develop.
Bacterial infections commonly cause scabs, crusting and hair loss and are often associated with prolonged wet conditions or skin damage.
Ringworm is a contagious fungal infection that affects the skin and hair and can spread between horses without appropriate treatment and biosecurity measures.
External parasites such as mites and lice cause irritation, itching and coat damage, particularly in young, stressed or closely housed horses.
Some horses develop painful skin reactions to sunlight, particularly in unpigmented areas. These conditions may be linked to liver disease, plant exposure or specific medications.
Consultations for skin and allergic conditions in horses are available with Dr Tina Baxter, an experienced veterinarian with advanced postgraduate training in veterinary dermatology.
Dermatology consultations are comprehensive and typically last one hour, allowing time for a detailed history, clinical examination and diagnostic planning. Appointments can be arranged in‑clinic at Camden.
A wide range of diagnostic tests may be performed to identify the underlying cause of skin disease and guide effective treatment. Conditions commonly assessed and managed include:
Dr Baxter’s approach focuses on accurately diagnosing each horse’s individual skin condition so that the most appropriate treatments can be prescribed. Where required, she will also develop long‑term management strategies that owners can implement at home, supported by ongoing veterinary care.
Our equine veterinary team provides comprehensive dermatology services, delivered either on‑farm or through referral to our Camden equine hospital, depending on the complexity of the case.
We perform a detailed assessment of the skin, coat, lesions and distribution of abnormalities, supported by a full clinical examination.
Diagnostic testing may include skin scrapings, fungal cultures or bacterial testing to identify the underlying cause of disease.
Where allergies are suspected, we develop long‑term management strategies, including environmental control, medication and preventative measures.
Treatment may involve topical therapies, systemic medications and practical management advice, tailored to the horse’s environment, workload and owner goals.
On‑farm assessment is often ideal for investigating dermatological issues.
Seeing horses in their normal environment allows our veterinarians to evaluate pasture conditions, stabling, insect exposure and management practices that may contribute to skin disease.
Treating horses at home minimises stress and allows treatment plans to be implemented realistically, particularly for horses in work or commercial operations.
Our ambulatory equine service routinely operates within approximately 40km of Camden, with case‑by‑case support for regional NSW.
While not all conditions are preventable, good management can reduce risk.
Regular grooming, clean rugs and disinfected equipment help maintain healthy skin and reduce transmission of infectious conditions.
Appropriate parasite control programs and insect management strategies can minimise allergic reactions and infestations.
Balanced nutrition supports healthy skin and coat function and may reduce susceptibility to disease.
Contact an equine veterinarian if skin conditions are persistent, worsening, spreading, causing severe itching, or associated with open wounds or systemic illness. Early intervention improves outcomes and reduces long‑term complications.
The cost of equine dermatology care varies depending on the type of consultation, diagnostic testing required and treatment plan developed. Our team will discuss expected costs and options during your consultation.
Our equine dermatology services are delivered by veterinarians from the Sydney School of Veterinary Science, supported by diagnostics and expertise.
We work closely with horse owners, trainers and stud managers to deliver practical, long‑term solutions.
Book an equine dermatology consultation to diagnose and manage skin conditions affecting your horse’s comfort and health. Our team provides thorough on farm assessment and targeted treatment plans.
Common conditions include allergic skin disease, bacterial and fungal infections, parasite infestations, pastern dermatitis, mud fever and sun‑related skin problems.
Signs of infection may include scabs, hair loss, swelling, discharge or sores that do not heal without treatment.
Some conditions, such as ringworm and lice infestations, can spread between horses if precautions are not taken.
Yes. Poor or unbalanced nutrition can affect skin and coat quality and may worsen some dermatological conditions.
You should seek veterinary advice if skin symptoms persist, worsen, or cause significant discomfort or open wounds.
