As the summer sun begins to shine, it's essential to remember that, just like humans, horses need protection from the elements, particularly the sun and pesky flies. Horses are sensitive creatures, and summer's increased warmth and insect activity can lead to various health issues if not managed properly. From sunburns to fly-borne diseases, summer can be tough on your horse's skin and overall wellbeing. However, with the right protection and care, you can ensure your horse enjoys the summer months safely and comfortably.

Why Sun and Fly Protection Is Vital

Sun Protection

Horses are naturally built to withstand the elements, but their delicate skin can still be affected by prolonged sun exposure. Certain horses, especially those with lighter coats, pink skin, or white markings, are particularly vulnerable to sunburn. This can result in discomfort, peeling, or even more serious conditions like skin cancer in extreme cases. Without proper protection, your horse's skin can suffer long-term damage, leading to a host of health problems.

Sunburn can also lead to a reduction in your horse's performance as they might feel uncomfortable or irritated. Plus, the risk of developing heatstroke can be higher when horses are left exposed to intense sunlight for extended periods.

Fly Protection

In addition to the sun, flies, midges, and other insects are a persistent problem during the warmer months. Flies can cause a range of issues for your horse, including bites that lead to irritation, inflammation, and even allergic reactions. Flies can also carry diseases like Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA) and the West Nile Virus, making it vital to take preventative measures to reduce the risk.

A horse's mane, tail, and face are common areas where flies tend to bite, and some horses can become extremely stressed by the constant buzzing and biting, leading to behavioral changes and potential injury as they attempt to escape.

Key Brands for Summer Protection

Several reputable brands specialize in providing high-quality products designed to keep horses safe from the sun and flies. These brands are known for their reliable solutions, whether in the form of fly rugs, sunscreens, or repellents. Here are some of the top brands to consider:

Shires

Shires is a well-known name in equestrian care, offering a broad range of fly protection products. Their fly rugs, like the Shires Fine Mesh Fly Rug, provide excellent coverage against flies while allowing the horse's skin to breathe. Shires also offers a selection of fly masks and fly sprays designed to protect against biting insects, making them a go-to for comprehensive fly management.

Their UV protection products, including fly sheets with UV filters, help guard against sunburn, especially for sensitive areas like the face, ears, and shoulders.

Premier Equine

Premier Equine is renowned for producing high-quality fly protection gear, particularly their fly sheets and masks. Their products are made with breathable fabrics that protect horses from the sun and insects while ensuring maximum comfort. Premier Equine’s Fly Rugs are often fitted with UV-protective material to safeguard your horse's skin from the harmful effects of sun exposure.

Their fly sprays are also popular, containing natural ingredients to help keep flies and other insects at bay.

Carr & Day & Martin

Carr & Day & Martin is a trusted brand in equestrian care, providing a wide range of grooming and fly protection products. Their FlyGuard range is designed to offer long-lasting protection from flies and midges, ensuring your horse stays comfortable throughout the day. Additionally, Carr & Day & Martin offers UV-protective sunscreen for horses with sensitive skin or white markings, offering a layer of protection against harmful rays.

Their fly sprays, such as Flygard, are designed to provide up to 12 hours of protection, making them ideal for horses that spend long periods outside.

Battles

Battles is a well-respected equine care brand, known for its effective fly control solutions. Their fly sprays, including Battles Insect Repellent, are designed to provide reliable protection against flies and other flying pests. Battles also offers sun protection products like Battles Sunblock, which helps protect your horse’s skin from harmful UV rays, preventing sunburn and damage to the skin.

Their fly protection products are perfect for horses that spend time in fields or stables where insects are abundant.

Barrier

Barrier is a company that specializes in natural and environmentally friendly products for horses. Their Barrier Fly Repellent is made from natural plant extracts, offering a non-toxic solution to keeping flies away. Barrier also has a selection of UV protection products, such as fly rugs and sunscreen lotions, to shield your horse from both flies and sunburn.

For horses with sensitive skin or allergies, Barrier’s natural approach to fly and sun protection makes it an excellent choice.

Lincoln

Lincoln offers a wide variety of equine products, including sun protection and fly control options. Their Fly Guard products include sprays, gels, and fly rugs, all designed to keep your horse protected from insect bites and UV damage. Lincoln’s Sunscreen Gel is particularly popular among owners of horses with light-colored coats, as it offers an easy-to-apply solution for sensitive areas like the nose and ears.

LeoVet

LeoVet is a European brand known for its effective insect repellents and fly control products. Their Leovet Power Phaser is a popular fly spray that offers long-lasting protection against flies, midges, and ticks. Leovet’s products are well-regarded for being both gentle on the horse’s skin and highly effective at repelling insects.

Their UV protection products, such as fly masks with built-in UV filters, are ideal for horses needing additional sun protection.

Absorbine

Absorbine is a trusted brand in the equestrian community, offering a range of fly control and sun protection products. Their UltraShield fly spray provides fast-acting relief from flies, gnats, and mosquitoes, while their SunBlock Cream helps protect sensitive areas of your horse’s skin from sunburn.

Absorbine’s products are known for their effectiveness, and their extensive range ensures that all horses, no matter their needs, are well taken care of during the summer months.

Additional Tips for Protecting Your Horse in the Summer

• Provide Shade: Ensure your horse has access to shaded areas where they can escape the direct sun. This could be a stable, a run-in shed, or natural tree cover in a field.
• Fly Control in Stables: Use fly traps or fly papers in stables to reduce the number of flies indoors. Fans can also help keep flies at bay while providing cool air to your horse.
• Hydration: Make sure your horse has access to fresh water at all times. Dehydration can quickly lead to heat stress, so ensure they’re drinking plenty of fluids, especially in the heat.
• Routine Grooming: Regular grooming not only keeps your horse clean but also helps to check for signs of irritation or sunburn. Be sure to apply sunscreen to sensitive areas after grooming.
• Fly Masks and Rugs: Invest in high-quality fly masks and fly rugs that cover your horse's face, neck, and body. These items act as a barrier against both flies and the sun’s harmful rays.

Conclusion

Summer can be a wonderful time for your horse, but it’s important to take the necessary steps to protect them from the sun and flies. By investing in high-quality products from trusted brands like Shires, Premier Equine, Carr & Day & Martin, Battles, Barrier, Lincoln, LeoVet, and Absorbine, you can ensure that your horse enjoys the season safely and comfortably.

With the right gear, sun protection, and fly repellents, you can prevent discomfort, irritation, and potential health issues. So, take the time to care for your horse this summer—they’ll thank you with a happy, healthy season!