Ragwort poisoning causes skin to peel off

The RSPCA is appealing for information after a horse was found with an infection so extreme her skin was peeling off.

‘Incredibly sore’

The mare, now named Becky, was found in a field near Yalding in Maidstone, Kent, with a herd of horses. She was suffering from severe ragwort poisoning, which had caused liver damage and photosensitivity to the sun.

Her condition was so bad the vet said she had to be removed from the sun immediately. She was seized by the police and placed into RSPCA care.

“I have never seen a case so bad,” said RSPCA inspector Rosie Russon. “Poor Becky’s skin was peeling off, it was awful. Her nose was cracked and incredibly sore with pus seeping out of it, and all the white patches on her legs and body were peeling, and hard like leather. She must have been in such pain.

The three-year-old is now in a private yard where she is being kept out of the sunlight, and is said to be doing well following treatment.

Information needed

The RSCPA has been unable to trace Becky’s owner and is calling for anyone with information about the horse or her owner to get in touch.

“In particular, information about any vehicles seen in the area would be useful,” said Rosie. “Please call 0300 123 8018, in complete confidence, if you know anything.”