Bug spray and sunscreen?

Lexxsmom · 05-08-2008, 04:02 PM

Hey all

Apparently we have black flies this year ( yuck) and not only that but we have TONNES ( double yuck).

I was wondering if anyone could recommend a good fly/big spray that is safe for dogs? I have one for my horse, and I'm pretty sure i've seen horse ones that are safe for dogs too, but I can't remember the brand...

also, does anyone have a spray on sunscreen that would work for dogs? Lexx burned the skin on his nose last year and I'd like to make sure that it doesn't happen again

thanks!

**Jenny** · 05-08-2008, 04:25 PM

Most horse sprays can be used on dogs. Just read the labels next time you are at the tack shop. I know Zoink (sp?) can be used on dogs. My trainer sprays sunscreen on her mare that seems to work - that may work for dogs too.

Linda H · 05-08-2008, 04:40 PM

I used to use some kind of horse spray on my dogs too, but I have found that Avon's Skin So Soft does wonders at repelling biting flies and mosquitoes. I started using it on my dog's ears and maybe a light rub on their body if the flies are after it too. You do have to reapply after maybe a couple of hours (don't really remember how long it lasted now, but long enough that I was satisfied with it).
Well it doesn't really repel but masks the body odor so they can't find you. I used it on me too.

**Luvbirds59** · 05-08-2008, 05:46 PM

We are having quite the black fly year too....the first day we were out hiking after they bloomed poor Petey got his ears all bitten up. I'm using a herbal all natural spray and wipes on Petey and myself.

oxc

Rauschund · 05-08-2008, 05:51 PM

the same company that makes Microtek Shampoo and Spray, also makes a Marigold spray to be used as a bug repellent. It is naturally and works fantastic. Visit the site, Welcome to EQyss Grooming Products and you should find it there.

Dobeman · 05-08-2008, 06:09 PM

Insect Repellent

Here is what I use for horses and dogs:

Lemon-Rosemary/ natural repellent

* Take a BIG fat lemon (the more rind the better) and slice it paper thin.
* Put in a bowl with a tablespoon of crushed rosemary leaves (or a 6 inch sprig of fresh).
* Pour a quart of hot, near boiling water over the lemon/rosemary mixture.
* Let steep overnight.
* Strain and put into a large spray bottle.
* Keep in fridge.
(NOTE: double or triple the recipe/then divide and freeze some)
Shake well before applying.

The d-lemone in this spray along with the rosemary oil will give your dog a beautiful shiny coat and keep fleas and other bugs away (including mosquitoes, so you get extra heartworm protection).
If your dog has dry skin or allergies add a teaspoon of tea tree oil and a tablespoon of Aloe pulp. Use the spray at least twice a week to keep the scent on the coat to repel bugs, and spray it around your doors and through the carpets. If it's a bad flea time, spray daily on the belly and feet to repel them. This has worked wonders for many years - and not only for the dogs, but people when hiking or walking in the woods. No bug will get near this stuff. And, of course, it's all natural.

Suncreen

Again for horses and dogs. I only use it on my brown guys because they fade more easily. I buy mine through KV Vet (www.kvvet.com):
Healthy Hair Care Products, Sunflower Sunscreen (also ** Horse Grooming Supplies, Equine Health, Healthy HairCare Silverado)

gracieface · 05-09-2008, 02:44 PM

I've made the rosemary lemon one before, works well, but you have to keep it in the frig. I've been told the dryer sheets work well too, rub it on the dog, and one friend would tie one to the dogs collar. Lexxsmom, you could check what Rens or PetSupplyHouse have as well- I remember there were a few options there too.

**kais_mom** · 05-09-2008, 03:40 PM

Thank you all for this post!!! While I am not having a huge problem, I have found when we go herding at sunset there are lots of bugs and I know Kai had a couple bites on his ear we presumed was from flies because we were at the herding place all day.

Thanks!

Dobeman · 05-09-2008, 04:01 PM

I have heard about the dryer sheets, too. But I am wondering if this is healthy?

When I wash dog beds, I only use perfume free laundry detergent, no softener and no dryer sheets.

**Jenny** · 05-09-2008, 04:04 PM

I have the EQyss Marigold spray for my horse. It smells great but it doesn't work as well as "conventional" horse fly spray. I personally like the Endure - it seems to work well but I don't know if it can be used on dogs. I use the Marigold spray on my horse's face & the regualr stuff on the body