For years, i’ve used Freedom 45 spot repellent for ticks and flies on my mare, with excellent results. I accidentally ordered Equispot instead. They both have the same active ingredient, permethrin 45%, but Equispot has more complicated application directions. If you’ve used both products, which did you prefer, and why?
I have used all of those and honestly can’t remember the specifics but my horse didn’t like them. I think they burn their skin so we quit using them.
Yes, some horses are sensitive to it, some the point of getting a rash, so it’s important to skin test with one drop first. I would say my mare’s reaction is more “ticklish” and if I get it on my skin, it tickles. (I wear disposable gloves most of the time.) But for good results WRT ticks (my main concern given where I live) and ease of use, I haven’t found anything better. It doesn’t help much with flies IME.
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I’ve only used Equispot…it can be a pain to apply (and if you drop too much on one spot it does seem to irritate them). I’ve found the best way to apply is when they are wet…I use a disposable glove and put some on the glove and rub over key areas (not where saddle, boots or girth go). That seems to reduce any irritation.
Thanks… well she needs it, but if it is more likely to cause irritation that could be a problem. Freedom 45 is easy in comparison. Five spots on each side of the horse and nothing hard to reach.
If I can get Freedom 45 quickly, I’ll stay with that
