Protecting Your Horse During Fly Season

As the weather warms up, horse owners must be mindful of the pesky insects that come with the change in seasons, mainly flies. Flies can be more than just a nuisance for horses, as they can cause stress, discomfort, and, in some cases, spread diseases. To protect your horse during the fly season, consider the following methods:

1. Fly Masks: Investing in a well-fitting fly mask can significantly reduce the annoyance caused by flies. Fly masks cover the horse's eyes, ears, and sometimes even the nose, providing a barrier against incoming flies. Some fly masks are also treated with insect repellent for added protection.

2. Fly Sheets: During fly season, lightweight and breathable fly sheets can be a game-changer for horses. These sheets cover the horse's body, acting as a physical barrier against flies. Look for fly sheets with UV protection, a tail flap, and a belly guard for comprehensive coverage.

3. Fly Sprays: Many fly sprays on the market can help repel flies from your horse. Consider the UltraShield line of fly sprays we stock year-round, and follow the application instructions carefully. Some sprays need to be reapplied daily, while others offer longer-lasting protection.

4. Stable Management: Maintaining a clean, tidy, stable environment can help reduce the prevalence of flies. Here at Piedmont Feed & Garden Center, we carry a variety of shaving options, including the new Fly Away Shavings. Fly Away Shavings keep you and your animals happy with all-natural fly-repellent oils and premium kiln-dried pine shavings. Regularly remove manure and soiled bedding, which are attractive fly breeding sites. Use fly traps or tapes in and around the stable to catch flies.

5. Fly Control Products: Besides fly masks, sheets, and sprays, other fly control products are available, such as Equi-Spot. Applied once every two weeks, Equi-Spot provides long-lasting control against dangerous ticks that can spread Lyme disease, mosquitoes that may transmit West Nile Virus and Equine Encephalitis, and biting flies and gnats. Consult with your veterinarian to determine which products suit your horse's needs.

By proactively implementing a combination of these methods, horse owners can play a significant role in protecting their equine companions from the irritation and health risks associated with fly season. Remember, each horse is unique, so it may require some trial and error to find the most effective fly control routine for your specific horse. Your veterinarian or equine specialist can offer further guidance on the best practices for fly protection based on your horse's individual needs.