The term fly mask, as it implies, is a cover used on the eyes, jaw and ears of horses to help protect them from pesky flies and other insects. Though the mask may look like the horse is being blinded, it’s actually semi-transparent which allows the horse to see. It also doesn’t affect their ears – they can hear just fine.
Most masks are made of mesh with fleece padding around the muzzle and other sensitive areas, though masks are generally not used while riding. Masks usually attach with velcro or zippers for ease of placement.
Fly masks come in quite handy because where there are horses, there are flies. Masks not only provide defense against annoying flies, but also from biting insects that can cause irritation and possible disease. In hotter weather, fly masks became that much more necessary.
If you haven’t made the small investment in a fly mask, you’ll want to follow along, because they’re an important part of overall horse care.
What do fly masks do?
We already know fly masks protect horses from flies, a very important benefit. Though it’s not just flies that can aggravate your horse. There’s plenty of other insects your horse needs to avoid. And let’s face it, the skin’s surface around his face is usually more sensitive – all the more reason to protect him as much as possible. Some of those insects can transmit eye-worm to horses, though that threat is not as prevalent. Fly repellent is always an option, but you don’t want to get that near the eyes and mouth. Flies tend to be attracted to the fluids in your horse’s eyes and nose – the very reason they tend to migrate around the head.
You may not realize that horses get stressed when they’re dealing with flies, just as much as we do. It’s an annoyance when getting pestered by flies, but the difference is they can’t do much about it – that makes a physical barrier even more necessary. When horses are in herds, they help each other by swatting flies away from each other’s faces. When they’re alone or stuck in a stall, that of course, isn’t possible.
The mask is also useful for horses who are sensitive to sunlight because it helps to filter out some of that bright sun. Some are even equipped with UV protection for further shelter and eye safety. Lest you think this is only a summer issue, think about how bright it gets when you’re out in the snow, so consider them in the winter if you see the white stuff fall.
What’s more, when you’re training your horse – no matter the reason – the flies can distract him. The mask will make him more able to follow instructions.
With or without ear coverage?
Fly masks come with ear covers or ear holes, so it’s up to you to decide what’s best for your horse. If you clip around your horse’s ears, he’ll have less protection from bugs – that might make a fly mask with ear covers more desirable. Some owners find that horses with smaller ears don’t fit into the covers well, so keep this in mind. If you do buy one with ears, make sure there’s enough room for the ears to move, because you probably know that horses’ ears are constantly moving.
Other owners find that if the horse is notorious for getting the mask caught on things or trying to pull it off, then the non-ear mask holds in place much better. Some riders prefer fly hoods that protect the ears and head while showing.
How to properly size one
Sizing a fly mask can be tricky business, because you don’t want one so tight that it rubs the skin. And you don’t want it too loose where gnats can slip through the large gaps. The good thing is that many masks have fleece edges for better comfort and protection.
Finding the right mask is key, because ones that don’t fit right will also cause him discomfort. The mask could scratch his eye and cause eye conditions that require a vet’s visit. When you try it on him and he isn’t able to blink freely without touching the mask, then you might need to look for a different one. Too tight and too loose won’t be a benefit, either – make sure the size is right.
A few reminders
By now you may be completely sold on investing in a fly mask, which is good. However, there are some things you want to keep in mind when using them.
Don’t leave it on his head all the time. It’s better for his head and eyes to breathe a few times a day than to make him wear it all the time. Remember, it can get hot under there on a humid summer day.
Always be sure to clean the mask, or better yet, keep a spare one around. Dirt and debris can easily find its way inside the mask – insects, too. If you don’t clean the mask, it could lead to irritation or infections. Use a mild antibacterial soap to clean it and rinse clean before air drying. You’ll be doing him a disservice if you let it get too dirty and he’s forced to wear it.
