Inside-Out Solutions for Fly-Free Equines!
As the days grow warmer, the annual battle against pesky flies begins. For equestrians, keeping our equine companions comfortable while avoiding reliance on synthetic chemical repellents is always a priority. Luckily, there are natural, cost-effective strategies that can help protect your horses from these relentless pests. Let’s take a holistic approach to fly management by addressing the problem from the inside out!
From the Inside: Feed-Based Fly Repellents
What your horse eats can make a surprising difference in deterring flies. Two simple additions to their diet, Garlic and Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV), may help create a natural fly-repelling effect by subtly altering your horse’s scent.
How It Works
- Garlic: Known for its sulphur compounds, garlic is thought to change a horse’s natural scent when excreted through the skin. This new scent can discourage flies from landing.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Balances your horse’s skin pH, potentially making them less appealing to flies.
Bonus Health Benefits
Feeding garlic and ACV also supports:
- Digestive Health: Keeps the gut healthy and functioning efficiently.
- Immunity: Boosts overall health, making your horse more resilient to fly irritation.
NRG Apple Cider Vinegar is unpasteurized and unfiltered, preserving the “mother” for maximum benefits. A daily dose of 1/4 to 1/2 cup in your horse’s feed or water is all it takes to promote fly resilience from the inside out.
From the Outside: Natural Barriers Against Flies
For immediate relief, essential oils can be your best friend. Topical solutions like NRG’s GlossArena Coat Shine not only enhance your horse’s coat but also act as a natural fly deterrent.
How GlossArena Helps
- Citronella, Peppermint, and Eucalyptus: These essential oils create an aromatic barrier that confuses flies and disrupts their sensory receptors.
- Odour Masking: The blend effectively disguises your horse’s natural scent, making them less attractive to flies.
This short-term solution is perfect for grooming, riding, or competing when you need quick protection.
Ongoing Fly Management Tips
A comprehensive approach to fly control combines diet, topical solutions, and environmental management:
- Fly Masks and Sheets: Physical barriers provide excellent protection, especially for horses sensitive to bites.
- Stable Hygiene: Regular removal of manure and cleaning water troughs helps reduce fly breeding grounds.
- Keep It Clean: Maintain a tidy environment around stables and paddocks to discourage flies.
Holistic Fly Management for Happy Horses
By combining good stable hygiene, physical barriers, and natural repellents like Garlic, Apple Cider Vinegar, and essential oils, you can create a fly management strategy that’s both effective and eco-friendly.
Say goodbye to chemical sprays and hello to a more natural, long-lasting solution for keeping your horses comfortable all season long!