FLIES AND MIDGES 

The fly and midge population increases exponentially throughout the summer months.

Flies can cause conjunctivitis, sheath infections, spread sarcoids, carry diseases and can cause fly strike (maggots) in unattended wounds, thrushy feet and aged gelding’s sheaths.

• Muck heaps attract large numbers of flies/Midges. Place as far away as possible from the stables
  
  
• Avoid marshy, boggy areas, woodlands and stagnant water for grazing during the summer months as the midge population is greater in these areas
  
  
• Fly repellents help reduce the number of flies/midges, BUT DO NOT ELIMINATE THEM
  
  
• Use DEET as an effective chemical repellent, available from the Sweet Itch website (www.sweet-itch.co.uk)
  or for an alternative use Woodland Bath Oil from Avon
  
  
• The use of fly rugs and masks are highly recommended but ensure they are carefully fitted and regularly checked, to reduce the chance of rubs and injury
  
  
• For midge control the BOETT rug and hood is thought to be the best available. (www.sweet-itch.co.uk)
  
  
• Stable at dusk and dawn when midge feeding is at its peak, or turn out at night