the big test
Wildwash – PRO Flea & Bug Repellent (Horses)
The company says: Ingredients from four continents have been selected as the most effective insect repelling botanicals in their country of origin. By combining these together, the company have created an effective natural Flea and Bug Repellent. The revolutionary blend of plants and herbs such as Horsetail, Eucalyptus and Nettle work together to help deter fleas, flies, mites and ticks. 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, Gillian McMurray, says: I was looking forward to trialling this as it was a completely new brand to me. The repellent is made from a selection of natural essential oils as opposed to chemicals which I felt would be better for their skins. Our ponies often have very small ticks on their faces and bodies, especially in the spring due to the fact that wild deer can be seen sharing their fields. The product comes in a spray bottle but rather than having the ponies disappear at the first sound, I used it on a sponge to rub over their faces. I tried it on three young ponies out of five in the same field. Used daily for two weeks, there appeared to be a noticeable difference between the two groups, as I scarcely found any ticks on the trial group. It also seemed to repel clegs from biting the ponies. I am interested in continuing to assess this repellent over the summer as the larger ticks appear, to see if it is still as successful in preventing these ones from attaching themselves to the ponies.
Carr Day & Martin – Flygard Extra
The company says: Contains an optimum level of 20% DEET for powerful, long-lasting protection against midges and biting insects. Get the perfect coverage and ultimate protection, even in hard to reach areas, using the new Equimist 360 technology. 600ml. RRP: £16.75.
www.carrdaymartin.co.uk
Our tester, Rachel Thomas, says: This fly spray was very efficient although, as is often the way with anything squirty, most horses don’t like it. So I just stuck with the good old spray into a cloth and applied that way. It certainly smells strong, you know it is there and it definitely repelled the flies when the horses first went out, unfortunately though it doesn’t last all day as when it wore off the flies were definitely keen. However, saying that I do have to say though I have yet to find a fly spray that does last longer than a couple of hours. But after another application was made, it certainly got rid of the flies again. Definitely a handy product that I would have in my grooming kit.
WildWash – PRO Healing Paw Balm
The company says: Using Sweet Almond Oil, Frankincense and Kanuka this is a super conditioning paw treatment that will relieve your dogs’ cracked, dry and rough paws and help protect them from every day wear and tear. Ideal for use in extreme weather conditions and affords protection against; hot pavements, road grit, ice and salt. Can also be used to moisturise nails, dry noses and treat calloused elbows and dry patches. Contains natural human grade ingredients and is completely safe for your pet to lick. Great for cats too!
Our tester, Sue Porter, says: This has been used two to three times a week since receiving it as I was concerned about the heat emanating from the pavements when the dogs were being walked. Suffice to say you’d not get me walking around in bare feet! It helps protect the pads from the hot concrete/tarmac and also from the heat of the sand while on holiday. The pads were becoming sore and dry but now they look so much healthier. I will continue to use it regularly, especially when ‘winter comes’, as the road grit and ice can cause burns on the pads. PS – great on rough skin on my feet too!!
www.theequinesite.co.uk
Noble Outfitters – Guardsman Fly Mask
The company says: Manufactured using heavy duty UV coated mesh to fight wear and tear and featuring a contoured nose to prevent insect penetration. The removable nose attachment is also UPF 25+ protected. Practicality is matched with luxury as the fly mask also benefits from a fleece lining on the crown and nose to ensure maximum comfort for your horse. Features also include: Flex Spline Technology creates a canopy away from horse’s eyes; Easy hang bridle loop for storage or wear with halter/bridle; Strong double-sided hook & loop for secure attachment. Available with, or without, ears. Black or Gold. RRP: £19.95
www.nobleoutfitters.co.uk
Our tester, Maria Phillips, says: The mask I tested came with ear covers. It is made from exceptional quality materials with no attention to detail spared. The bulk of the mask is thick rubberised mesh which prevents any flies, from the smallest to the largest, from penetrating and the joins are covered in strong binding for durability and strength. The ear covers are lined with fleece edging, as is the detachable nose- net, to prevent risk of rubbing even when your horse is sweating. One of the features I particularly liked was the way a canopy was designed around the eye area to ensure in didn’t come in close contact with the eyes. Every detail has been covered even down to a loop on the top so that it can be attached to a bridle, head collar or even just to hang it up. The back fastener is a strong double sided loop, which ensured it stayed on securely and restricted movement to prevent rubs. My pony happily grazed all day in this mask with no adverse effects.
Bucas – Sweet Itch Rug
The company says: As prevention is the key to the sweet itch problem, the company has developed a fabric synonymous with the black and white stripe that prevents the tiny biting mites from getting to your horse. The first rug of its kind, the specially developed fabric prevents equines being bitten by small flies as well as repelling the bigger, aggressive horse flies as the confusing zebra stripe is scientifically proven to keep them away. An elasticated, detachable belly flap covers from the elbow to the sheath, offering protection to the horse’s whole body. Shoulder darts enable freedom of movement and a generous tail flap covers this hugely problematic area. The rug also offers UV protection for horses preventing sunburn and stopping the coat from getting bleached. Sizes 125cm – 170cm / 5’6 – 7’2. RRP: £130.00
http://www.zebraproducts.co.uk/Stockists.html
Our tester, Simon Buckley, says: I wasn’t sure about the zebra stripe fly rug when it arrived! I think you either love it or hate it? However as soon as I got the rug out and had a look, I could see it was very well made and finished to a high standard. The same was apparent when I put it on a horse. All the straps were in the correct places, the fit was good and the material, although light weight, seemed pretty robust. After putting it through a very rigorous test, being put on and off various horses each day, it has stood up to the challenge. It has stayed in the correct position and apart from the odd grass stain is as good as it was when it came out of the bag. As it does keep though flies away I’m considering treating the horses to another if the sun keeps shining!!
Equine Page 29
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