Dew Poisoning in Horses: Fast Relief, Prevention & Care | Draw It Out®

 

Real Rider Resource   /   Dew Poisoning
Real Rider Resource

Dew Poisoning in Horses — Stop the Cycle and Get Comfortable, Fast

Morning grass shouldn’t cost you a sound horse. Here’s the no-nonsense playbook: what dew poisoning is, what to do today, and how to keep it from flaring the week before a show. Plain talk, practical steps, and skin-kind support. See deeper dives in our Real Rider Resource case guide and our news & how-to post.

What is “dew poisoning” really?

“Dew poisoning” is barn shorthand that overlaps with pastern dermatitis or mud fever—skin irritation and opportunistic infection driven by prolonged wet grass, grit, and microbes. It favors pasterns and fetlocks—especially on white socks and feathered legs.

For photo-backed walkthroughs, see our Real Rider Resource case guide and our news & how-to blog.

Why it lingers

  • Moisture cycles (wet grass → soft skin → micro-abrasions)
  • Hair density traps grit and microbes
  • Over-washing and harsh actives disrupt skin barrier
  • Stopping care as soon as it “looks better”

If you’re reading this in the barn aisle—do this now

  1. Dry the legs thoroughly. Towel and air. No heat guns, no rough rubbing.
  2. Cleanse gently. Loosen grime; do not rip scabs.
  3. Apply a soothing, protective topical that won’t sting or over-dry—our RESTOREaHORSE® Liqui-Gel Salve is designed for this step.
  4. Limit wet turnout for 48–72 hours. Dry bed; clean wraps if advised.
  5. Track daily. If worse—or no change in 3–5 days—call your vet.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Forcing scabs off too early
  • Over-washing with harsh surfactants or alcohols
  • Sealing in moisture with heavy occlusives on damp skin
  • Stopping care as soon as it “looks better”

Calm it, clean it, protect it—then keep it away

1) Cleanse without cruelty

Use a gentle, skin-friendly cleanser; pat dry thoroughly. If hair is heavy, talk to your vet or trimmer about careful clipping to help the area stay dry and visible.

2) Soothe & support recovery

Choose a topical that comforts angry skin and stays where you put it. Reapply per label, and keep the area clean and dry between applications. Riders often reach for our Rapid Relief Restorative Cream here.

3) Protect against re-wetting

During wet spells, run a light daily barrier routine after the skin has calmed—especially before turnout on wet grass.

4) Keep it boring

Consistency wins. Small, regular care beats heroic fixes once it’s flared.

Helpful products from Draw It Out®

Chosen for sensitive skin and rider-proof application. Keep it simple; keep it steady.

RESTOREaHORSE® Liqui-Gel Salve

Clings where you place it, supports problem skin, and plays nice with sensitive horses.

Shop RESTOREaHORSE®

Read our case guide on dew poisoning care with RESTOREaHORSE®.

Rapid Relief Restorative Cream

A soothing, restorative option to calm the area as you break the moisture cycle.

Shop Rapid Relief

Where it fits in the routine: see our how-to.


Prevention that actually sticks

  • Manage turnout around heavy dew days; offer dry lot time when flared.
  • Keep feathers tidy enough to dry quickly; avoid aggressive clipping on raw skin.
  • Post-ride rinse smart, then dry completely—no damp wraps.
  • Daily micro-check: heat, tenderness, new scabs. Catch it early.

When to call your veterinarian

  • No improvement within 3–5 days of consistent care
  • Spreading lesions, significant pain, or lameness
  • Fever, foul odor, or thick discharge
  • History of photosensitivity or autoimmune skin disease

This guide is for general education and isn’t a diagnosis. Your horse is an individual—work with your vet.


FAQ

Is dew poisoning contagious?

It’s primarily a skin-barrier issue plus opportunistic microbes. Good hygiene helps. Don’t share dirty wraps or brushes.

Can I ride while it’s healing?

Light work is often fine if the area isn’t painful and you can keep it clean and dry. If sore or worsening, rest and reassess with your vet.

How long until it clears?

Mild cases can settle in a few days with consistent care; stubborn cases take longer. The key is breaking the moisture cycle and protecting the skin.

Shop RESTOREaHORSE®    Shop Rapid Relief