Warmer days usually means more time in the pasture for our equine friends. Though you would be hard pressed to find a horse that opposed to more time in the great outdoors, spending time in the heat does present its own set of problems. One of the most common complains of the warmer horse season pertains directly to pests. Flies, mosquitoes, ticks, and more often plague our horses in the spring and summer months. Not only do these creatures make our horses’ lives very uncomfortable, but they also have the potential to spread illness and disease.

Though there are a large number of conventional bug sprays on the market, they usually contain chemicals that can cause more harm to our horses than benefits. Additionally, they are usually toxic to us, and we absorb them when applying them or handling our horses. And lastly they harm the environment, and perhaps even our horse’s food and water supply. It is really best to search for alternatives to these products.

A great way to avoid chemical ridden fly products is to invest in a fly sheet and mask. These items are safe to use on your horse, and are also more sustainable than a bottle of spray. Be sure to find one that fits your horse well to ensure the most comfort for your horse. Even if you do not want to get a sheet, the masks protect the eyes and ears, arguably the most sensitive areas of your horse’s body.

There are also a large number of essential oils that help to repel pests and bugs. These include lavender, geranium, eucalyptus, citronella, clove, tea tree, and cedar. Find products made with these essential oils. Not only do they smell wonderful, but they are also a natural alternative to toxic chemicals. Despite the fact that they are natural, use common sense when applying them. Always test for sensitivity on your horse before applying to the whole body. Avoid getting into the eyes and mucous membranes. And never use these oils full strength. Always dilute the essential oils with carrier oils, and use pre-formulated products as directed.