Fly Protection for Turnout: Keeping Your Horse Safe and Comfortable in the Pasture

As summer approaches, horse owners begin to worry about flies and other insects that can harm their horses. Horses are particularly sensitive to insect bites, and some horses can even have allergic reactions to fly bites. In addition to being painful and uncomfortable, insect bites can also lead to skin irritation and infections. This is why it is important to protect your horse from flies when they are turned out in the pasture. In this article, we will discuss different types of fly protection and how to choose the right one for your horse.

The Importance of Fly Protection

Flies are not only annoying to horses, but they can also carry diseases such as West Nile virus, which can be deadly. In addition, some horses are particularly sensitive to fly bites and can develop painful and itchy sores. This can lead to further complications such as infections, which can be difficult and expensive to treat. Therefore, it is important to protect your horse from flies when they are turned out in the pasture.

Types of Fly Protection

There are several different types of fly protection available for horses. Some of the most common types include:

Fly Masks

Fly masks cover your horse’s face and eyes, protecting them from flies and other insects. They are particularly useful for horses with sensitive eyes or those who are prone to eye infections.

Fly Sheets

Fly sheets are lightweight, breathable sheets that cover your horse’s body and protect them from flies and other insects. They can also help protect your horse’s coat from sun damage and other environmental factors.

Fly Boots

Fly boots cover your horse’s legs and protect them from fly bites and other insects. They are particularly useful for horses with sensitive skin or those who are prone to developing sores from fly bites.

Fly Spray

Fly spray is a liquid spray that you apply to your horse’s coat to repel flies and other insects. It is a quick and easy way to protect your horse from flies when they are turned out in the pasture.

Choosing the Right Fly Protection

When choosing fly protection for your horse, there are several factors to consider:

The Horse’s Sensitivity to Insects

Some horses are more sensitive to insect bites than others. If your horse is particularly sensitive, you may want to consider using a combination of fly protection such as fly masks, fly sheets, fly boots, and fly spray.

The Climate

The climate in which your horse lives will also play a role in the type of fly protection you choose. If your horse lives in a hot and humid climate, a lightweight fly sheet and fly spray may be more appropriate than heavy fly boots and a thick fly sheet.

The Horse’s Turnout Habits

Some horses are more active in the pasture than others. If your horse is particularly active, you may want to consider using fly boots to protect their legs from fly bites.

Your Budget

Fly protection can be expensive, especially if you have multiple horses. It is important to choose a fly protection method that fits within your budget.

Conclusion

Fly protection is an important aspect of horse care, especially during the summer months. There are several different types of fly protection available, including fly masks, fly sheets, fly boots, and fly spray. When choosing fly protection for your horse, it is important to consider their sensitivity to insects, the climate in which they live, their turnout habits, and your budget.

FAQs

1. Do all horses need fly protection?
   • While not all horses are equally affected by flies, it is generally recommended to protect your horse from flies to prevent skin irritation, infections, and disease transmission.
2. Can fly protection be worn 24/7?
   • It is not recommended to keep fly protection on your horse 24/7. It is important to give your horse breaks from wearing fly masks, sheets, and boots to allow their skin to breathe and prevent irritation.
   • 3. How often should fly spray be applied?

• The frequency of fly spray application depends on the type of fly spray you use and the activity level of your horse. Some fly sprays can last up to 24 hours, while others may need to be applied more frequently.

4. Are fly boots necessary for all horses?
   • Fly boots are not necessary for all horses, but they can be particularly useful for horses with sensitive skin or those who are prone to developing sores from fly bites.
5. Can horses develop an allergy to fly spray?
   • While rare, some horses can develop an allergic reaction to fly spray. It is important to monitor your horse after applying fly spray and discontinue use if you notice any signs of an allergic reaction, such as itching or swelling.

In summary, fly protection is an important aspect of horse care, especially during the summer months when flies and other insects are more prevalent. By choosing the right type of fly protection for your horse and taking into account their sensitivity to insects, the climate they live in, their turnout habits, and your budget, you can help keep your horse safe, comfortable, and free from fly bites and related complications.