DMSO is in common use in the UK by stables and individuals for the treatment of horses as a topical anti-inflammatory and analgesic. In America it has been licensed For use by veterinarians since 1970.

DMSO has been used to treat various conditions in horses. Some care and expertise is required when treating horses with DMSO. The correct application of DMSO topically, sometimes with other anti-inflammatory agents to relieve soreness of ligaments and muscle tissue can be very effective. Care needs to be taken as DMSO can carry other substances through the skin.

Cleanliness when applying is therefore very important. Pure liquid DMSO needs to be diluted ( with distilled or pure water ) appropriately but ready mixed liquid DMSO and gel are now available from specialised suppliers. Although it can carry other substances through the skin it cannot take viruses or bacteria as their molecules are too large.

Dilute DMSO has been used intravenously to treat horses that are tying up and it has also been useful in cases of neurological trauma and swelling of the brain.