QuestionHi Toni, my 3 yr. old mini stud will not keep his fly mask on. Last summer we said if he didnt want it on we will leave it of, but He got fly bots in his eyes (also known as fly eggs). We had the vet out and he surgectly removed the bots. Any suggestions to help.
Alanna
AnswerHi Alanna-
Thanks for the question. I don't have any sure-fire solutions to this one but do have the problems with some of mine (big horses, too). I haven't heard of bot eggs being surgically removed from the eyes although I have heard of blocked tear ducts being opened. I am attaching a link for you on bots and their life-cycle and treatment- http://www.pfizerah.com/health.asp?country=US&lang=EN&species=EQ&drug=PU&t=2329&...
Just cut and paste it into your browser. I treat bots with rotational worming and bot knives (from their legs and coats) as they affect the stomach as you can read in the article.
If a horse wants his fly mask off, he will usually find a way. However, I have found with mine that persistance sometimes pays off as eventually most of mine have gotten used to the masks. Once the velcro or straps tear off, I use twine from my hay bales as it will break with enough pressure if a horse gets caught on something. Have you tried getting a slightly larger halter and putting it over the mask? You might also try roll-on fly treatments or SWAT (an ointment) in the eye area but you would have to be careful not to get it in the eyes. An old-timey fly spray that many farriers swear by is simply apple cider vinegar. I have mixed it with other homeopathic herbs and oils that are insect repellent like lavender or citronella but again be careful. Hope this helps. Best, Toni
