Fly control

For some reason, flies seem to like Appaloosas more than any other breed—especially the white ones. There’s no way of proving that of course, but many Appaloosa owners feel exactly that way.

With fly season upon us, it’s time to make sure we’re armed for battle against these inevitable little pests.

Horse clothing

The most common product used to combat flies is a mesh mask. There are many brands that come in multiple colors and sizes. Fly masks aren’t meant to be worn by horses that will be out to pasture for days without anyone regularly checking on them.

Fly masks have come a long way in the past few years. They now come with double Velcro closures so horses are less likely to pull them off each other. Some cover the ears and nose as well.

Fly sheets and leg wraps are also becoming more common but may not be as easy to keep intact on your Appaloosa. You can also purchase disposable fly collars and leg bands that are said to last up to two months.

Some owners choose crocheted ear nets that slip underneath the bridle while riding. This option has become more and more about making a fashion statement, as they can come with beads, metallic striping and Swarovski crystals.

Fly spray

It seems there are more fly sprays on the market than there are flies on your horse—the options are endless. The bottom line is to try as many as you can; various products and chemicals seem to be more or less effective on different horses.

What seem to be growing in popularity are concentrated products that are applied to the horse’s skin, and soak into the system. They work for up to two weeks before requiring follow-up application.

Owners can also mix their own fly sprays with a variety of ingredients. Because the chemicals in fly spray are so strong, natural fly sprays that are organic and less toxic to the environment, horse and owner have been developed. In addition to spray bottles and aerosol cans, other options are ointments and smaller bottles with roll-on applicators. These two products are more common for the horse’s head and when the horse has a minor wound that needs to be kept pest free.

Oral options

Consider oral fly products as a supplement that can be mixed in with your Appaloosa’s grain. Be sure to follow dose instructions.

Minced or chopped garlic is another alternative that some owners swear by. When ingested it gives off a smell that’s displeasing to flies.

Around the barn

Fly traps are a popular option for the barn or near the horse’s stall. We’ve all seen fly tape hanging from a barn ceiling somewhere. It’s inexpensive, convenient and safe. Try hanging fly traps where they aren’t accessible to horses and other animals. Some larger barns in-stall fly mist systems in each stall that squirt out a measured amount of fly spray.
Now that you’ve gotten the flies taken care of, it’s time to get out and enjoy the summer with your Appaloosa!

By Jeannie Blancq Putney

Printed in the May 2008 issue of Appaloosa Journal.

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