Draw It Out® Rapid Relief Restorative Cream: Treating Dew Poisoning Naturally

July 20, 2021

Skin Health

Dew Poisoning (Scratches/Pastern Dermatitis): Signs, Care & Prevention

How to recognize pastern dermatitis, a practical care routine, when to call your veterinarian, prevention tips, and horse-friendly support with Draw It Out® Rapid Relief Restorative Cream.

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On this page

What is dew poisoning (scratches)?
Common signs
Step-by-step care routine (How-To)
When to call your vet
Helpful products
Prevention tips
FAQ

What is dew poisoning (scratches)?

Dew poisoning—also called scratches or pastern dermatitis—is an irritation of the skin on the lower limbs (typically the pasterns/fetlocks). It’s often associated with persistent wet/muddy conditions plus minor nicks or rubs that allow skin irritation to escalate.

This guide is educational and not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis. If in doubt, involve your veterinarian.

Common signs

Redness, scurf/crusting on pasterns or heels
Heat, sensitivity to touch, stamping or irritation
Hair loss or scabbing; thickened skin if chronic
Reluctance to flex the limb or move forward comfortably

Step-by-step care routine (How-To)

Step 1

Clean & assess

Bring the horse into a dry, clean area. Gently rinse away dirt and debris; pat dry—avoid harsh scrubbing that may irritate skin.

Step 2

Clip & dry (if needed)

If heavy feathers trap moisture, carefully clip hair around the affected zone. Thoroughly dry before any topical support.

Step 3

Topical support

Apply a thin, even layer of a horse-friendly restorative cream per label directions to support skin comfort and barrier care.

Step 4

Keep it clean & dry

Limit exposure to wet turnout or muddy lanes. Refresh bedding and use dry standing areas to reduce moisture contact.

Step 5

Reassess daily

Monitor comfort and skin appearance. If signs persist or worsen, or if swelling/lameness develops, contact your vet.

Step 6

Return to normal

Once skin looks healthy and the horse is comfortable, resume regular grooming and turnout while maintaining dry conditions.

If your horse is very sore, bleeding, or the area looks infected, pause topicals and call your veterinarian for guidance.

When to call your vet

Marked swelling, heat, or lameness
No improvement within 3–5 days of diligent care
Extensive areas, foul odor, or spreading irritation
Pain that limits movement or weight-bearing

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Helpful, horse-friendly support

Skin Health • Daily Care

Rapid Relief Restorative Cream

A draw-it-out favorite for skin comfort and aftercare routines—used by riders who want simple, horse-friendly support for sensitive skin areas.

Shop Rapid Relief Restorative Cream

Learn more on the product page for directions and details.

Skin & Aftercare

RESTOREaHORSE®

Liqui-gel salve riders lean on for skin aftercare routines. Clean, horse-safe ingredients with a stay-put feel.

Shop RESTOREaHORSE®

Comfort • Show-Safe

Draw It Out® Liniment

A sensation-free, naturally derived liniment trusted by real riders for everyday comfort around lower limbs.

Shop Liniment Spray 16oz Gel

Prevention tips

Keep it dry: Improve drainage; refresh bedding; avoid standing mud/wet grass when possible.
Groom consistently: Clean/dry pasterns after turnout or bathing; remove sweat/dirt build-up.
Manage feathers: Clip carefully if heavy hair traps moisture and debris.
Hoof & boot hygiene: Clean bell boots/leg gear; allow to dry fully between uses.
Balanced nutrition: Support healthy skin and overall resilience with a well-rounded diet.

FAQ: Dew Poisoning (Scratches)

Is “dew poisoning” contagious?

It’s usually a reaction to environmental conditions plus skin irritation, not something horses “catch.” Managing moisture and gentle skin care are key.

Should I pick off scabs?

Avoid forcefully removing scabs—they protect healing skin. Work gently; follow your veterinarian’s instructions.

Can I ride while my horse has scratches?

Light work may be fine if your horse is comfortable and the area is protected and dry. If sore or lame, rest and consult your vet.

When should I see the vet?

If there’s swelling, lameness, odor, spreading irritation, or no improvement in a few days of diligent care, call your veterinarian.