Fly Repellent for Horses That Is Homemade

Biting flies can ruin a nice afternoon of grazing in the pasture.

As much as we enjoy the balmy days of summer, nobody appreciates the insect life that comes along with it. This distaste is shared by our animal companions, who suffer even more because we sometimes forget that they also need bug repellent. Horses tend to be more afflicted due to their thin coats and the amount of time spent outside. Since horses also tend to have sensitive skin a caring owner would be naturally reluctant to use a chemical-based insect repellent on them. Fortunately there are natural, homemade alternatives that are just as effective.

Things You'll Need

• 1 large lemon (preferably with a thick rind)
• 3 cups boiling water
• 1/2 cup dried whole rosemary
• Spray bottle (2 to 3 cup capacity)
• 2 large bowls (at least 4 cup capacity each)
• Thin strainer
• Lid (to cover the bowl; a plate or cutting board
• Wooden spoon
• Funnel

Instructions

1. 

   Lemon forms the basis of many fly repellent products.

   Slice the lemon thinly and put the pieces in the bowl. Do not discard any slices.

2. 

   Dried rosemary can be used for cooking, incense, and cosmetics as well as bug repellent.

   Sprinkle the dried rosemary into the bowl over the lemon slices,

3. Pour the boiling water over the lemons and rosemary, being careful not to let any of the hot water splash on your face or hands. Mix with the wooden spoon until blended.

4. Steep the mixture overnight.

5. Strain the mixture into the second bowl. Use the funnel to pour the mixture into the spray bottle. Ensure that there are no bits of rosemary or lemon in the mixture as this will eventually clog your spray bottle.

Tips & Warnings

• Combing your horses mane and tail with flowering elder is also effective as a fly repellent. Petroleum jelly and bacon grease are also effective in sensitive areas such as behind the ears, the tip of the tail and along the jawline. If you need leftover grease, restaurants will usually donate their used oil to you for nothing.

• Garlic is a common and very effective fly repellent. If it is added in powder form to the horse's feed the animal will secrete garlic scented oils that will also help repel insects.

References

• Moniteau Saddle Club: Fly Spray Recipes
• Equine World UK: Fly Repellents for Horses