Without insect protection, nothing works in the stable on hot summer days. Because the buzzing pests are always there in the pasture or when cleaning and riding. Our three tips for prevention for horses and riders also work without chemicals.
Horseflies, flies, mosquitoes – no matter what’s buzzing around the horse, it’s annoying. And in the worst case scenario, it stings and causes itching. However, the impression that the insect plague is increasing from year to year is not true: it has been scientifically proven that the number of insects is declining dramatically and is having serious consequences for all ecosystems. The four most common pests in horse stables – horseflies, flies, midges, black flies – are not among the most threatened species anyway.
However, there are large regional differences in the insect population. And of course there are more insects in a nature reserve or on a horse farm than in the city center.
3 tips against flies
- The best defense is cleanliness in the stable. Many insects are attracted by the smell of droppings and ammonia – so if you feed vigorously and clean your run areas, you will give insects no reason to visit.
- When it comes to preventing eye infections, the classic fly mask is still the method of choice. It should fit well, not pinch and the horse’s eyes underneath should be checked at least once a day. Horses with eczema or allergies can also Full body fly blankets be useful.
- In areas or at times with a particularly high insect infestation, it makes sense to keep ponies and horses in a protected stable at dusk. Many flying pests come in particularly large numbers during this time. Floor-to-ceiling slats at the stable entrance keep insects away from the stable and fly and horsefly traps can also provide relief.