Animal

Mallenders — the thick, scaly, often cracked skin behind a horse’s knee—can be a frustrating and uncomfortable skin condition for both horse and owner. Often confused with mud fever or dermatitis, Mallenders is a form of hyperkeratosis (excessive skin growth) that tends to affect feathered breeds such as Cobs, Shires, and Friesians. Botanica’s Cleansing Wash and Natural Herbal Cream offer a gentle, effective solution that can significantly improve skin comfort and appearance. And if you're having issues with flying insects try the best fly spray for horses. What Is Mallenders in Horses? Mallenders refers to thickened, crusty, or cracked skin that develops in the flexor crease behind the knee (carpus). In some cases, it may extend to the front of the hock, known as Sallenders. These lesions are not contagious but can become infected, itchy, and sore if untreated. Mallenders is often associated with feathered breeds, where dense leg hair traps sweat, debris, and moisture—creating the perfect environment for scaling and hyperkeratosis. Symptoms of Mallenders Thickened, flaky or scaly skin behind the knee Deep cracks or fissures in the skin fold Hair loss or matting of feathers Mild to severe itching or discomfort Oozing lesions in more advanced cases Increased risk of secondary infections (bacterial or fungal) Causes and Triggers of Mallenders Mallenders is typically caused by: Chronic friction and moisture retention in skin folds Excess keratin production due to genetic predisposition Poor lymphatic circulation in heavy breeds Lack of airflow under feathers Fungal or bacterial overgrowth secondary to skin breakdown Though not always “curable,” it is highly manageable—especially with a consistent, gentle skincare routine that softens the skin, reduces build-up, and prevents infection. How Botanica Products Help Manage Mallenders in Horses Mallenders requires daily, targeted care using products that: Clean without irritating broken skin Soften dry, crusty buildup Soothe inflammation and reduce itching Help prevent bacterial and fungal complications This is where Botanica Cleansing Wash and Natural Herbal Cream shine. Step 1: Botanica Cleansing Wash to Gently Wash and Prepare the Skin This plant-based, non-sting cleansing wash is perfect for softening crusts in the area behind the knees—without harsh chemicals. Key Benefits: Natural antimicrobial properties (tea tree, thyme, lavender) help control infection Loosens and lifts keratin crusts safely and gently Soothes soreness and calms inflamed tissue Safe for use on cracked, open, or bleeding skin Tip: Dilute the Cleansing Wash (approx. 20:1 in warm water) and apply with a clean cloth or cotton pad. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to soften build-up before gently wiping away. For deeply crusted areas, you can wrap the leg with a soaked gauze pad under cling film for 30 minutes, then rinse and dry. Step 2: Botanica Natural Herbal Cream to Soothe, Hydrate, and Protect After cleansing and drying the skin, apply Botanica’s Herbal Cream—a rich, botanical-based barrier and healing salve. Why It Works: Comfrey, Aloe Vera, and Lavender reduce inflammation and promote skin renewal Tea Tree offers natural antimicrobial support The cream locks in moisture, softens hardened keratin, and protects from environmental irritants Absorbs easily and is safe for repeated, daily use Tip: Apply a small amount to affected areas 1–2 times per day, massaging gently to ensure absorption.  Why Choose Botanica for Mallenders? Many Mallenders cases worsen with the use of harsh medicated shampoos or steroid creams that compromise skin barrier function. Botanica’s gentle, natural formulas: Support skin healing without steroidal ingredients Avoid parabens, alcohol, and sulfates Are lick-safe and non-toxic Can be used long-term without side effects Conclusion: A Gentle and Effective Mallenders Solution with Botanica Mallenders may be chronic, but it doesn’t have to be a lifelong battle. A simple, consistent skincare protocol using Botanica Cleansing Wash and Natural Herbal Cream can dramatically improve skin condition, reduce irritation, and support your horse’s comfort and performance. Gentle care. Natural ingredients. Real relief. That’s the Botanica way. Shop Now

Chronic Progressive Lymphoedema (CPL) is a debilitating, progressive condition that primarily affects heavy draft breeds such as Shires, Clydesdales, and Gypsy Cobs. It causes painful swelling, thickening of the skin, and recurring infections in the lower limbs—particularly where feathering is dense.  Although there is no cure for CPL, effective management is not only possible—it’s essential. With consistent, informed care, we can significantly slow its progression and reduce the horse’s discomfort. In this post, I’ll break down: What is CPL and what are its symptoms? How is CPL typically treated? How Botanica Cleansing Wash and Botanica Natural Herbal Cream can support CPL management. Why a natural topical routine is beneficial for CPL-prone horses. What Is Chronic Progressive Lymphoedema (CPL) in Horses? CPL is a genetic lymphatic disorder affecting the lower limbs. The lymphatic drainage is compromised, resulting in chronic swelling, fibrosis, and eventual skin thickening, often complicated by secondary infections (bacterial and fungal). Over time, the legs can become disfigured and prone to sores, nodules, and scabs. Common CPL Symptoms in Horses and Ponies Persistent swelling in the lower legs (usually hind limbs first) Thickened, folded, or scaly skin (especially under feathers) Frequent bacterial infections (cellulitis, pastern dermatitis) Itching, discomfort, and oozing lesions Development of hard nodules and skin overgrowths (fibrosis) Progressive lameness and reluctance to move How Is CPL Treated? There is no permanent cure for CPL, but early intervention and lifelong management are key. Treatment protocols typically include: Regular feather clipping and skin inspection Gentle daily cleansing to remove irritants and reduce infection risk Topical antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory treatments Compression bandaging (when advised by a vet) Systemic antibiotics or antifungals when infections flare Supplements and lymphatic massage therapy This is where Botanica products fit seamlessly into the daily care routine, if the flying insects are also bothering your animals try the best fly treatment for horses. 🌿 Why Botanica Cleansing Wash and Natural Herbal Cream Work for CPL Management If you favour gentle care, Botanica International’s plant-based formulations are among the most effective non-steroidal topical options for CPL. They work in tandem to soothe and protect—critical components of CPL control. Step 1: Daily Use of Botanica Cleansing Wash The Botanica Cleansing Wash is an herbal blend ideal for daily limb bathing or targeted washes. When diluted (typically 20:1 with warm water), it helps remove dirt, debris, and bacteria trapped under thick feathering. Benefits: Gently removes crusts and scabs without irritating broken skin Natural antiseptic ingredients like tea tree help reduce bacterial & fungal load Soothes sore, itchy, or inflamed areas Supports infection control without the risk of antibiotic resistance We recommend using the wash twice a day for chronic CPL horses — especially after turnout, to remove mud and allergens. Saturate the area with the diluted solution, leave on for 5 minutes, and pat dry with a clean towel. Step 2: Apply Botanica Natural Herbal Cream to Moisturise and Protect Once the skin is dry, Botanica Natural Herbal Cream should be applied to affected or vulnerable areas twice daily massaging well in. This herbal-rich formulation helps lock in moisture, soften fibrotic skin, and promote healing of micro-tears and flare-ups. Benefits: Contains Aloe Vera, Comfrey, Lavender, and Tea Tree — all with natural anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties Helps reduce crusting, irritation, and cracking of skin folds Safe to use on broken skin or open scabs Lick-safe and non-toxic, ideal for sensitive animals You can also read about our amazing horse detangler here.    Why a Natural Routine Helps: Botanica vs. Harsh Chemicals Many commercial antiseptics and corticosteroid creams can cause long-term damage to already compromised skin. Botanica’s range is: Free from parabens, sulphates, and synthetic steroids Well-tolerated by even the most reactive horses Backed by decades of use in holistic equine care Gentle enough for daily, lifelong application without causing sensitivity Conclusion: Botanica and CPL—A Practical Partnership Managing Chronic Progressive Lymphoedema isn’t easy—but it is manageable.A consistent, gentle skincare routine using Botanica Cleansing Wash and Natural Herbal Cream can help keep the skin clean, soft, and resilient, while reducing flare-ups and infection risk. We’ve seen first-hand how integrating Botanica into a CPL management plan improves comfort, mobility, and skin condition—often delaying the progression of symptoms. CPL may be chronic, but suffering doesn’t have to be, shop now.

We’ve seen first hand how seasonal changes — especially the transition into warm, wet weather — significantly increase the risk of skin disorders in horses. Whether your horse is in daily work, turned out on pasture, or stabled part-time, this time of year presents ideal conditions for microbial overgrowth, inflammation, and damage to the skin barrier. But early prevention, coupled with the right topical support, can make all the difference. Let’s explore the most common skin conditions treated during this time of year, why they occur, and how you can protect your horse before problems take hold. 🌧️ Why Summer Skin Problems Spike 🌧️ When heat meets moisture, you create a skin environment that is: Warm (ideal for fungal and bacterial growth) Humid (reduces evaporation, keeping skin wet longer) Often dirty or contaminated (especially in muddy paddocks or from sweaty tack) These conditions weaken the natural acid mantle of the horse’s skin — a thin protective film that defends against pathogens and helps maintain hydration. Once this is compromised, horses become vulnerable to irritation, infection, and inflammation. ⚠️ The Big Three: Conditions to Watch Closely 🔸 1. Mud Fever (Pastern Dermatitis) This is not just a mud problem — it's a complex, often painful skin reaction driven by bacterial invasion, typically Dermatophilus congolensis and Staphylococcus species. Common Signs: Crusty, scabby lesions on the lower legs (especially the pastern and fetlock) Sensitivity to touch, heat, and swelling Lameness in more advanced cases Contributing Factors: Prolonged exposure to wet, muddy ground Poor drainage in paddocks or turnout fields Feathered breeds (cobs, draft horses) with heavier leg hair trapping moisture Tip: The key is to clean the area without over-stripping the skin’s natural defences, followed by a topical barrier and antimicrobial treatment. 🔸 2. Fungal Irritations (Ringworm, Yeast, and Mould Overgrowth) Fungi thrive in moist, dark, poorly ventilated areas — such as under girths, rugs, or manes. While ringworm (a contagious fungal infection) is often seen in younger or stressed horses, other fungal overgrowths such as Malassezia or Candida can also emerge in warm, damp skin folds. Common Signs: Circular patches of hair loss Flaky skin with or without itching Poor coat condition and persistent rubbing Tip: Treating the infection is only part of the equation — reducing moisture, sweat, and heat retention is essential for recovery and prevention. 🔸 3. Barrier Breakdown and Friction Sores When the skin is constantly wet or softened, it becomes more susceptible to: Friction from tack, leading to girth galls or saddle sores Reaction to rugs, especially in sensitive-skinned breeds Allergens or irritants, such as plant resins or bedding dust Common Signs: Raw, hairless patches Mild swelling or redness that worsens after riding Delayed healing even with minor cuts or grazes Tip: Regularly assess skin integrity, especially in areas where equipment contacts the skin. Look for early signs of maceration (whitening or sogginess) which can precede more serious irritation. 🐴 Your Wet-Weather Essentials:  To effectively prevent and manage these conditions, we consistently recommend products that: Cleanse without disrupting the microbiome Soothe inflammation and restore skin balance Provide a natural, breathable protective barrier ✅ Botanica Cleansing Wash This herbal blend is gentle yet effective at lifting away: Mud and dirt Bacterial contaminants Sweat and sebaceous build-up It’s particularly useful post-turnout or post-exercise, especially when skin is already under stress. Unlike harsh detergents, this wash supports the skin’s native flora while promoting cleanliness. ✅ Botanica Anti Itch Cream 550ml Formulated with healing botanicals and soothing agents, this cream addresses: Redness and sensitivity Mild microbial overgrowth Broken or healing skin Found especially useful in cases of pastern dermatitis, under-rug scalding, and post-fungal treatment where skin needs support to regenerate. 🔬 Why Botanica Works:  Natural antimicrobial herbs provide gentle yet potent protection Non-steroidal and free from irritants — ideal for sensitive horses Proven in both preventative care and recovery protocols Used together, these products form a comprehensive defence system — cleansing away contaminants and helping to rebuild the skin’s natural strength and resilience. If the flying insects are bothering your animals you can also try the best all natural fly spray for horses. Prevention is easier than treatment. Your horse’s skin health is worth the investment. 👉 [Shop Now – Offer Ends Soon]

  3 WEEKS TREATMENT - ONE YEAR OF PROTECTION     1.    Dilute Cleansing Wash with warm water at 20:1 (Feel free to make it a bit stronger if you like)   2.    Clean the infected area thoroughly removing dry and dead skin   3.    After cleaning the affected area with the Botanica Cleansing Wash leave for five to ten minutes as the wash itself is a medication                 (Do not rinse the Cleansing Wash off).   4.    Apply the Anti-Itch cream to the affected area massaging well in. (Repeat the application of the Anti-Itch cream after five minutes)   The animal should be treated once a day for the first five days. (Always wash first, then apply the cream.)   5.    The second week the Botanica Anti-Itch treatment is applied every second day.   6.    There should be no need for any rugs or covers as the Anti-Itch Cream and Cleansing Wash are natural insect repellents.   7.    If the animal is already itching, the Botanica treatment will give instant relief and stop any itching immediately.   8.     Repeat the treatment again for one week in mid to late July as August is a bogey month for Sweet-Itch.                          

The Natural Approach to Dog Grooming: Keeping Your Pet’s Skin & Coat Healthy with Botanica All-Natural Herbal Range As pet owners, we all want the best for our dogs—whether it’s their diet, exercise, or grooming routine. Keeping your dog’s skin and coat in top condition is not just about looking good; it’s essential for their overall health and well-being. At Botanica International, we believe in a natural approach to grooming, using the power of herbal ingredients to soothe, protect, and nourish your dog’s skin and fur.   Why Natural Grooming Matters Many conventional grooming products contain harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and artificial preservatives that can irritate sensitive skin. Dogs with allergies, dry patches, or skin conditions may suffer from unnecessary discomfort when exposed to these additives. Our range of natural grooming products is designed to provide gentle yet effective care, helping to maintain healthy skin without compromising on results.   The Botanica Difference: Herbal Solutions for Dogs Our specially formulated Botanica All-Natural Herbal range harnesses the benefits of Aloe Vera, Tea Tree Oil, Lavender, Cedarwood, Comfrey, and Neem Oil—each ingredient chosen for its unique ability to calm irritation, promote healing without any scarring, and enhance coat condition. Botanica Small Animal Herbal Cream: Ideal for dogs with dry or irritated skin, this cream provides deep hydration and supports skin repair. Simply massage into problem areas to soothe discomfort and promote healing. Botanica Cleansing Wash: A gentle yet powerful wash that helps remove dirt, bacteria, and build-up while being kind to the skin. It’s perfect for dogs prone to hot spots, itchy skin, or minor wounds. Simply dilute, apply, and let it soak. Botanica 6-in-1 Spray: This multifunctional product conditions, detangles, adds shine, reduces dandruff, and soothes flaky skin—all while leaving a refreshing natural scent. A must-have for long-haired breeds or those prone to knots and matting.   How to Incorporate Botanica into Your Grooming Routine Step 1: Botanica Cleansing Wash Start with a Wash: Use the Botanica Cleansing Wash to remove dirt and refresh the skin, do not rinse as the Botanica Cleansing wash has many beneficial effects.   Step 2: Botanica Small Animal Cream Condition and Soothe: If your dog has sensitive areas, apply Botanica Small Animal Cream  to nourish and protect the skin, massage into affected area for maximum results.    Step 3: Botanica 6 in 1 Grooming Spray Keep the Coat Shiny & Healthy by spraying Botanica 6-in-1 Grooming Spray onto the coat before brushing to detangle, reduce static, and enhance overall shine.   Check for Skin Issues Regularly: Regular grooming is the best time to check for lumps, bumps, or signs of irritation. Using natural products helps to keep skin issues at bay. Read our article on why this is the best horse detangler in the world.    Give Your Dog the Best with Botanica Botanica International is committed to providing cruelty-free, vegan-friendly, and all-natural solutions that truly work. Whether your dog is an active adventurer or a pampered lap dog, our herbal products offer gentle, effective care for every coat type. Try the Botanica Small Animal Care Range today and experience the natural difference in your dog’s grooming routine!