Kite's Story: Finding a Way Forward After Two Difficult Years
Customer: Sarah R
Horse: Kite, a 22-year-old Irish Sport Horse
Location: County Durham
Products featured: Sweet Relief Cream & Sweet Sun Relief Cream
After two years of struggling to manage her 22-year-old horse's delicate skin, Sarah was desperate to find a practical way forward. Today, Kite is enjoying life, showing off in the field and even posing for a long-awaited photoshoot.
Two Years Of Frustration
Sarah and Kite have been together for 20 years, so when his skin began causing concern, she was determined to do everything she could to keep him comfortable.
His legs required particular attention, with delicate, cracked skin that needed careful management. The summer months brought additional challenges, as Kite has sensitivity to sunlight. Sarah tried wrapping his legs to provide cover and support; however, she found the wraps rubbed against his delicate skin, causing damage.
Despite being under the care of a supportive vet and trying numerous topical products, Sarah was still looking for a breakthrough.
"I was starting to despair. Even with veterinary guidance, finding an approach that suited Kite wasn't easy. After 20 years together, it was incredibly upsetting to feel that I still hadn't found the right way to support his everyday care."
Discovering Biteback
Following a conversation with her vet, Sarah began researching silver-based skincare products and came across Biteback.
Encouraged by what she read, she ordered a small pot of Sweet Relief Silver Cream, initially trying it on one of Kite's front legs.
"The following day, a friend at the yard noticed that Kite was looking much more settled."
Sarah continued using the cream as part of Kite's regular skincare routine, appreciating its suitability for his delicate skin and the protective barrier it provided.
She subsequently discovered Sweet Sun Relief Cream, which offered another practical option for managing his sun-exposed skin during the warmer months.
Having previously tried various factor 50 sun creams, Sarah particularly appreciated the mineral-based formulation and its staying power. She found that a single top-up during the day was generally sufficient for Kite.
Getting Kite's Sparkle Back
For Sarah, the most rewarding part of the journey has been seeing Kite enjoying life and displaying the cheeky personality she knows so well.
"He's back to showing off his signature 'airs above ground' in the field! It's wonderful to see his character shine through."
And there was another special moment to come.
Sarah had long dreamed of arranging a professional photoshoot with her horses, but had repeatedly put it off. In August, she finally made it happen, capturing some beautiful memories with Kite looking every bit the magnificent horse she knows him to be.
After two difficult years, it was an especially meaningful occasion.
Sarah's Final Thoughts
"Biteback has been a big part of our journey, and I've really valued having products and support I can turn to when caring for Kite."
Kite's story illustrates just how much time, patience, and perseverance can go into caring for a horse with challenging skin. We're delighted that Sarah has found products she values as part of Kite's ongoing care, and we're grateful to her for sharing their journey.
Thank you, Sarah - and keep showing off, Kite!
This case study shares Sarah's personal experience of caring for Kite and her approach to supporting his everyday skin care. Every horse is different, and individual experiences and results may vary. Kite's care has involved veterinary guidance and an ongoing management routine, and the experiences described should not be taken as a guarantee of product results or as a substitute for veterinary advice.
Biteback products should always be used in accordance with the instructions provided. If your horse experiences persistent skin concerns or sensitivity to sunlight, we recommend seeking veterinary advice to establish the most appropriate approach to their care.