Q: I own a 28-year-old thin mare that is pastured with approximately 20 other horses. I have been treating her for folliculitis (inflammation of the hair follicles) with Betadine surgical scrub baths for four weeks now, and she has many bald spots on her rump. I live in New England and it is getting colder (especially at night), so I worry about her staying warm.

What can I put on her to help grow the hair quickly so she can grow her winter coat back in the bald area? She has a good winter coat on the rest of her body.

Cheryl Case, via e-mail

Q: Your question is a good one, although there are several issues I feel need to be addressed. You say your mare has folliculitis