4 non-toxic ways to keep the mosquitoes away

Yeah, so it doesn’t rain for two days here in the greater Seattle Washington area and the mosquitoes are out in force. It’s not even spring yet! This makes me think it’s a good idea to talk about some way we can keep mosquitoes away as spring arrives.

1. Mosquito Dunks reduce the number of adult mosquitoes.

Mosquitoes lay eggs in still water. Ponds, marshes, and yes, even your water troughs. Mosquito dunks can be placed in any standing water source. They are organic and non-toxic to your horse. Mosquito larvae that feed on the dunks will die.

2. Spray around the barn with an all-natural mosquito repellant.

There are plenty of chemical solutions out there, so when I find an all-natural one that swears it will keep the mosquitoes away I jump on it. Mosquito Magician uses essential oils to deters mosquitoes for 1 – 2 weeks each application. Use this around your yard and the barn as an effective way to reduce the number of biting insects.

3. Use an all-natural spray on your horse and you.

For the human in this equation, Repel comes in a spray and wipe formula. Its all-natural ingredients promise to keep the bugs away for up to 6 hours. Make sure your horse is also protected. Absorbine Ultrashield makes a ‘green’ option that uses essential botanical ingredients to keep your horse comfortable.

4. Use a fly sheet when your horse is enjoying time out in the pasture or in the paddock.

One thing you will learn about using natural botanical products is that they don’t last long. It’s just one of the sacrifices you have to accept to avoiding chemical options. But that’s okay because a good fly sheet can keep your horse comfortable for extended hours while you are off doing life. There are a lot of options out there for fly sheets. I like the softer options but I’m not sure what is better protection from biting bugs. Rumor has it, though, that wearing zebra stripes helps. I don’t know. Has anyone tried it? I would be interested in the results!

And one more tip.

Bonus option: Net clothing. It would almost be worth it sometimes.