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For three seasons out of four, flying pests can be a real issue for your horse, especially when it’s wet and warm which is basically spring, summer and autumn in the UK!
So here at MyCountrystore we feel your horse’s pain and stock the best fly repellents, fly rugs and sheets plus fly masks and veils. Protection which will keep your horse happy throughout the warm weather.
Each year we get asked lots of questions from our customers regarding keeping flies at bay. With the help from our full time equine expert Athena (who has 2 horses of her own), we have put together a quick Q&A’s which we hope will answer any questions or queries you may have.
If you still need more information, please contact us on 01432 345321 or use our contact form.
There are a vast array of products on the equine market for ensuring your horses is comfortable during fly season. The simplest option being a fly rug and fly mask, this may not always be an option for some horses that may get too hot or suffer from rubbing. You could also use one of the many fly sprays and fly gels that are available and will keep your horses fly free for a number of hours, these are especially useful for when riding.
This is down to personal preference and what flies you are trying to deter. Some people prefer a spray with a high Deet concentrate whilst others may prefer a more natural approach such as a citronella spray.
The best way to keep flies from biting your horse is making sure they are kept as cool as possible in the summer months and by using a fly gel and a sponge to cover the entire body, paying extra attention under the belly, neck and behind the ears.
Many people believe that apple cider vinegar keeps flies away by raising the pH level in the horses blood. Apple cider vinegar can either be used in a fly spray or in your horses feed or water to help keep flies away.
White fly sheets are the coolest option for keeping your horse cool as well as protecting from flies as research suggests that biting flies are more attracted to darker colours. The weight of a fly sheet can vary so be sure to choose one that is not too heavy.
A normal fly sheet is not suitable in the rain as they are not waterproof but you can however purchase fly sheets with waterproof panels across the back.
The most natural fly sprays are the citronella based sprays. Â One of our main products we sell is called Carr & Day & Martin Citromax.
Yes fly sheets are a great way of keeping your horse comfortable during the fly season. Many horse owners say this is an essential item.
Flies are attracted to large mammals that are dark, warm and that move around a lot. Flies are most active in humid and warm conditions which is why they are only an issue during the warmer months. Fresh manure is an ideal breeding ground for flies and they also sustain on the endless supply of horse blood.
Yes, some horses get very irritated by flies and may start stamping, you can buy fly boots that will keep your horses legs protected.
A good fly mask is an essential during the summer, flies can be extremely persistent when on your horses face and may cause your horses eyes to run and feel irritated. Using a fly mask will keep your horses face cleaner, more protected and less likely to suffer around the eyes.
Athena is our Equine specialist, who has been riding and competing (predominantly in show jumping) since the age of 6 years old.
She also has a diploma in Equine management and has 3 horses of her own.
