Intradermal testing is the most effective method of identifying horses allergies. Allergens that commonly affect horses are mites, dusts, danders, molds, weeds, grasses and trees.

Medications that can cause negative skin test reactions include glucocorticoids, antihistamines, progestagens and certain tranquilizers.

Procedure for intradermal allergy testing:

1.     Horse is sedated and restrained in standing position

2.     A rectangular area of hair is gently clipped from the neck

3.     Negative (saline) and positive (histamine) controls are injected

4.     Various allergens are then injected and read at 15-30 mins after

The best treatment for allergies is usually Immunotherapy (desensitisation) or avoiding allergy triggers. Immunotherapy involves creating a vaccine for your horse. Once we have identified what your horse is allergic to, we formulate an allergy vaccine (immunotherapy) containing the allergens that your pet has reacted to. As the vaccine begins to work, there will be fewer allergic signs (such as infections and itching). We prefer using Immunotherapy to medications, as it minimises further reactions.

Is your horse experiencing allergy symptoms? Bring them in for a consultation. We treat your pet like one of our own. Call now on: +61 08 6277 9430 (Murdoch) and (Balcatta) or email: dermnurses@adcmg.com