Summer Fly Control: Tips and Tricks to Protect Your Horse

Summer’s here, and with it comes one of the most persistent (and annoying) challenges for equestrians: flies! Whether you’re spending long hours at the barn or out on the trail, flies are sure to make life a little more difficult for you and your horse. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some top fly control tips, plus the best fly gear on the market to help keep those pests at bay.

1. Keep Your Horse Comfortable with Fly Masks

Fly masks are must-have accessories for every horse owner during the summer months. Not only do they keep flies away from your horse’s sensitive eyes and ears, but they also provide protection from UV rays and reduce the chances of rubbing or irritation. Here are a few fan favorites:

• LeMieux Classic Fly Hood
  This fly hood combines practicality with style. Made from breathable mesh, it’s perfect for protecting your horse from those pesky flies while keeping them cool. The LeMieux Classic Fly Hood is soft, comfortable, and comes in a variety of colors, so your horse can look as good as they feel.
• Equiline Lemonfly Semi-Rigid Fly Mask
  Looking for something a little more durable? The Equiline Lemonfly Semi-Rigid Fly Mask offers excellent protection against flies, especially with its semi-rigid design. It stays securely in place and won’t slide down or shift around during a ride. Plus, it’s designed to be extra comfortable for your horse, no more itchy ears!
• EquiFit Essential FlyMask
  If you’re after a lightweight, high-performance fly mask, the EquiFit Essential FlyMask is the way to go. It’s crafted with a soft, flexible fabric that conforms to your horse’s face, providing maximum comfort while keeping the bugs away. Plus, it features an extra-large mesh area for better visibility!
• Catago Fir-Tech Fly Mask
  This fly mask has an innovative fabric that’s infused with ceramic fibers to promote blood circulation and muscle relaxation. Perfect for horses that need extra comfort while keeping flies away!

2. Use Fly Spray (But Make It Work for You)

Fly sprays are a staple in every equestrian’s summer arsenal. But not all fly sprays are created equal. Be sure to look for one that’s both effective and safe for your horse. Some sprays are all-natural, while others use chemicals to keep flies away for longer periods. Just be sure to reapply as needed, especially if your horse is out in the pasture or working up a sweat!

3. Maintain Cleanliness in the Barn

One of the best ways to reduce fly populations around your horse is to keep their living space as clean as possible. Flies are attracted to manure, so make sure to clean stalls frequently and remove waste from pastures and paddocks. Adding fly traps to the barn can also help to catch flies before they become a problem. Be sure to dispose of stall waste away from where horses are stabled or congregate

4. Provide Shade and Fresh Water

Flies love hot, sunny conditions. Keeping your horse in shaded areas during the hottest parts of the day can help reduce fly exposure. Also, make sure your horse has access to fresh, clean water at all times to stay hydrated and comfortable in the heat.

5. Consider Natural Repellents

For those who prefer to go the natural route, essential oils like citronella, eucalyptus, or lavender can act as natural fly repellents. You can add a few drops to your horse’s grooming products or use a diluted mix in a spray bottle for a DIY fly spray.

7. Fly Predators

Having horses at home is a life goal for most horse owners. When living in rural areas where neighbors have horses or other livestock, everyone tends to have their own way of managing them. Fly Predators are great because they stay close to where they are dropped and they eat the fly larvae preventing them from maturing. They need to be scattered on your disposal area frequently, but they are a great way to help reduce the nuisance without chemicals.

Fight the Fly Battle This Summer!

Summer means longer days, more riding, and yes flies. But with the right gear and a little know-how, you can keep your horse comfortable and fly-free. Whether you’re opting for a LeMieux Classic Fly Hood, the sleek Equiline Lemonfly Fly Mask, or the innovative Catago Fir-Tech Fly Mask, you’ll have your horse looking stylish while they enjoy the sunny season, without the nuisance of flies!

So, how do you plan to protect your horse from summer flies? Share your favorite fly control tips below!

Happy summer riding!