proud flesh

[DreamWeaver <karen@chaton.gardnerville.nv.us>]

except for
>some proud flesh building up on the fetlock. Anyone have any sure-fire
>remedy for taking care of this? 

Hi Lori:

I'm sure there are dozens of remedies for treating proud flesh.  Proud
flesh is the formation of granulation tissue.  One of my veterinary books
recommends corticosteroid salves for helping control proud flesh.  However,
it also states that corticosteroids inhibit skin cell growh and stop a
healing process if applied for too long.  Steroids should never be placed
in a deep wound before the granulation bed has formed, because they depress
normal function of the immune system and can promote infection.  

Here is what it says about nitrofurazones:  Certain compounds contribute to
the formation of granulation tissue.  Nitrofurazones, used on deep wounds,
delay new skin growth by 30%.  A thick scab forms over the wound surface,
preventing healing from the "inside out".  However, on superficial skin
abrasions, nitrofurazones keep the skin moist and supple, so hair quickly
grows back.  I have found that if you use nitrofurazone (Thanks Brian!),
mix it with desetin and it will stick to the wound a lot better.

I use Bickman's Gall Salve.  If you rub it in vigorously daily, it will
keep the proud flesh from forming.  You have to keep on top of it though.
I use this stuff for everything, it is great.  I learned about it from a
few ridecampers - so it's definitely been tested!!  Most tack or feed
stores can order it for you.  It comes in a one pound (I think) tub.  The
product itself is green, and the container has a black screw on lid -
normally sells for under $20, and mine has lasted a couple of years - and
believe me, I use it on everything!  

Happy Trails,

Karen
in Gardnerville
& Weaver
& Rocky