May 2004

Prepare For Summer’s Flying Circus

After feed, we probably spend more money—and aggravation—on fly-control options. We certainly spend more time battling the things.

Flies show no mercy when aggravating your horse.

Fly control begins with good stable management. This means you need to clean up and spread manure, keep debris from feeds swept up and consider fly traps, parasitic wasps or even barn misters. And be sure your horse has on his fly armor, meaning at least a fly mask.

If you want full-coverage, you’ll need a fly sheet. We found Saratoga Summer Turnout (www.horseworks.com 800-848-1914) the top pick. It’s a nicely priced, lightweight sheet that has a single well-placed belly surcingle. If money’s no object, Classic Cover-ups (www.classiccover-ups.com 610-932-9400) offers two strong, durable choices in their Big Kahuna and Horses In Black models. Both sheets give good coverage in a rip-resistant…