Embrace Equine shield fly spray

Permethrin-based sprays hold up better than pyrethrin during the humid March-to-November fly season in North Central Florida because the active ingredient breaks down more slowly on sweat-damp coats. Pyrethrin formulas are still a good fit for sensitive-skinned horses or daily show prep, but expect to re-apply more often. Our Williston store will carry both families so owners can match the spray to their horse's skin type and turnout schedule.

Most ready-to-use fly sprays last 24 to 48 hours in dry climates, but Florida humidity, sweat, and summer rain usually cut that down to once a day or every ride. Concentrates diluted to label strength typically hold a little longer than ready-to-use bottles because the carrier is oil rather than water. Plan on daily application from April through early October and every 2 to 3 days once pressure drops in November.

Concentrates come in a small bottle and you mix them with water at home, which runs about one-quarter to one-half the cost per ounce of ready-to-use spray. They are the right pick for barns with three or more horses or anyone spraying daily. Ready-to-use bottles are pre-mixed and convenient for single-horse owners or trail riders who only need a bottle or two a year.