the big test
It’s that time of the year when both our horses and us are plagued with those pesky flying insects. Whether they be flies or midges just buzzing about annoyingly, up to the downright irritating ‘clegs’ which persist in painfully biting any available animal! So, finding a product that takes the sting out (excuse the pun) is a must. Our panel members have been testing some market stalwarts and some new ones too!
Now Fly Away….!!
Mark Todd – Waterproof Fly Sheet
The company says: This handy lightweight fly sheet is manufactured in 600 denier waterproof and breathable fabric, with mesh sides and lining. The rug can be used for turnout on those unpredictable summer days as well as being ideal for use at shows and events. Navy. Sizes: 5’6 – 7’0. RRP: £62.99.
www.wefi.co.uk
Our tester, Val Williams, says: This is a fabulous rug and one with a difference, because as well as protecting against the ‘beasties’ it also keeps your horse cool. There are two good hoop and loop fastenings on the front of the rug and also three hoop and loop fastenings along the belly. There are adjustable leg straps and a really useful gusseted tail flap which is so great for tail protection against the midge. It has a nylon shoulder protection to prevent rubbing, but we love the open weave mesh along the rug which keeps the horse so cool while grazing. This is an extremely versatile rug and a must buy.
Wildwash – Horse Wonder Balm for Hooves & Wounds
The company says: A multipurpose soothing and moisturising balm full of natural ingredients and many more. It can be used as a hoof dressing to help maintain healthy and beautiful hooves or is perfect for use on hot spots, itchy spots, minor cuts, scrapes and grazes. Contains Shea Butter, Sea Buckthorn Oil and Kanuka Oil. 100ml. RRP: £14.95
Our tester, Gillian McMurray, says: This comes in a neat little pot, ideal for going in the pocket and thus useful over the summer months when checking ponies in the fields. It is made from organic shea butter with added natural essential oils. It has a pleasant lavender smell and since it is made of a waxy substance, it adheres well to the skin. I used it on minor cuts and found it absorbed well into the skin, keeping the abrasions moist and giving a healthy environment for quicker healing. This wonder balm is also recommended for use on hooves and I did rub some into the coronet band of one of the ponies. It absorbed well and softened rough horn on this area. I’m sure with regular use it would make a difference to the hoofves but it used rather a lot of product from the small pot! I feel its best use is for minor cuts and scratches where it definitely seems to help healing.
Horze – Pharma Deo-Spray Itch Slayer
The company says: An aromatic spray that relieves itching and irritation on the skin during the summer time and improves horse skin welfare. Contains aromatic oils. Safe to use multiple times a day. 500ml. RRP: £12.49
www.horze.co.uk
Our tester, Clare Chappelhow, says: I had this in mind for a particular horse, one that is known to itch and irritate her skin during warm weather, especially when midges and flies are around. Disappointingly it was not as effective as the product I normally use on her, and thus her skin became aggravated again, so it wasn’t successful for her.
But….I also tried this in another way… It has a lovely aroma and I found it easy to spray on the horses, who after exercise in warm weather were going back out in the field and who would no doubt be itchy. I noticed it was more effective than some fly products that I have used and it was nice to see that those horses just sprayed with it certainly didn’t have the same amount of flies/midges around them compared to those horses who had none on. I am tempted to have this in my show kit to spray on my horse who may be a little on the warm side in the dressage/show ring to help freshen and deter unwanted visitors that may upset a good performance.
Equine Page 28 Wildwash – ProBug Repellent for Dogs
The company says: By combining a revolutionary blend of effective insect repellent plants and herbs from four continents, such as Horsetail, Eucalyptus and Nettle which work together to help deter fleas, flies, mites and ticks, we have created an effective natural Flea and Bug Repellent for dogs. Apply freely to skin and coat to deter fleas, flies, mites, ticks and mosquitoes. Use as often as necessary. Avoid contact with eyes. 300ml. RRP: £14.95
www.wildwash.co.uk
Our tester, Sue Porter, says: Omg, this is great. Although I have still administered the regular veterinary flea/ tick repellent, I have used this product on a weekly basis. As the dogs are walked daily in fields and woods, either from home or when we’re away elsewhere with the caravan, it’s great to have the added protection this product gives. Not only have the dogs been regularly sprayed, but so have their beds and any other pieces of furniture I find them on, as it all adds to the repellent factor, and it smells so good too. As it’s made from natural oils I also sprayed it on myself when I was plagued with ‘mossies’ – and it worked!! So, I shall be keeping a bottle of this with my travelling canine kit.
www.theequinesite.co.uk
VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
RECOMMENDED
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