09/07/2026
Wet Weather Alert for Horse Owners 🐴
With the ongoing rain across the Illawarra and paddocks becoming increasingly waterlogged, we're expecting to see a rise in several common hoof and skin conditions associated with prolonged wet weather.
While the rain is certainly welcome, wet conditions create the perfect environment for bacteria and hoof problems to develop. Here are a few things to keep an eye on over the coming weeks:
🐎 Hoof Abscesses. Waterlogged hooves become softer, making it easier for bacteria to enter through small cracks or bruises. Signs: • Sudden, severe lameness • Heat in the hoof • Stronger-than-normal digital pulse • Reluctance to bear weight
🌧️ Rain Scald (Rain Rot). Constant moisture prevents the skin from drying properly, allowing bacteria to thrive. Look for: • Crusty scabs over the back, neck and rump • Matted tufts of hair • Tender or inflamed skin
🦵 Mud Fever (Pastern Dermatitis). With many Illawarra paddocks turning muddy, lower limbs are especially at risk. Signs: • Red, inflamed skin around the heels and pasterns • Scabbing or crusting • Swelling or soreness • Lameness if left untreated
🦶 Thrush Standing in wet conditions for prolonged periods can lead to infection within the frog of the hoof. Watch for: • Black, foul-smelling discharge • Soft or damaged frog tissue • Pain when cleaning the feet
🌱 Fresh Pasture & Laminitis Recent rain followed by winter sunshine can encourage fresh pasture growth. Horses and ponies prone to laminitis may be at increased risk, so it's important to monitor grazing and body condition.
✅ Simple ways to help prevent problems: • Pick out and inspect hooves daily. • Check legs for scabs, swelling or wounds. • Remove wet rugs when possible and allow horses to dry out. • Provide access to the driest area of the paddock or stable. • Monitor your horse's movement each day—small changes are often the first sign something isn't right.
If your horse develops sudden lameness, persistent skin lesions or swelling, don't wait to see if it improves. Early treatment often leads to a quicker recovery and fewer complications.
If you have any concerns about your horse this wet season, the team at Illawarra Equine Centre is here to help.
💙 Stay safe, stay dry, and give your horses a little extra attention while this wet weather continues!
