Cashel
Crusader Fly Mask Long
Fly Control
Manufacturer: Cashel
Model: Crusader Fly Mask Long
Category: Fly Control
Purchase: I found this type of fly mask by searching the internet. Once I found the long fly mask at one site (for $29.95), I then searched again to compare prices. The lowest price that I could find was at www.bierwirths.com. I paid $23.95 for this fly mask.
Likes: Most fly masks that I've seen in use are obtained from local tack shops and Tractor Supply/cooperative outfits. They are fine but typically the fly mask only covers half of the horse's head. I find that on my horses, flies sometimes get underneath the masks and results in the horses shaking their heads to rid themselves of flies, sometimes making you think that you shouldn't have a fly mask at all.
I've also found numerous flies aggregating on the horses' noses, further exacerbating the problem.
I find that the long fly mask by Cashel is durable as well as highly protective of the entire head down to the nose. On my farm, I don't seem to have a problem with flies aggravating the horses on their nostrils...they gravitate just above the nose with the standard masks. The long fly mask extends to the nostrils.
This is a great product and I, quite frankly, am surprised that the local suppliers in Virginia don't carry them.
I also like that Cashel designed the mask to create adequate spacing to provide ample area around the eyes to avoid rubbing, as well as to aid in sunburn avoidance on horses with white noses.
Dislikes: I haven't worn one out yet so I cannot comment on their longevity. They seem to wear very well so far.
With every benefit there is a cost. These fly masks aren't cheap. Even though I believe that I found the lowest price, $23.95 is 54% higher than the standard fly mask. This is certainly a consideration if you have a high volume equine operation.
Quality: The Cashel fly masks are constructed of quality nylon material and come in several sizes; Horse, Warmblood, Arab and Yearling/Pony. I purchased the Horse and Yearling/Pony sizes for my gals.
The fly mask also has a style that covers the ears if you wish. I did not purchase this style.
Summary: Flies are a fact of life on the farm. To maximize coverage, a long fly mask is, to me, a no-brainer. The Cashel mask, though somewhat pricey, is the way to go to ensure maximum protection and a happier horse.
Rating: 5
Author: Paul T. Vesely, Anna Valley Farm
Date: 2004-07-28
Usefulness Rating: 5 out of 5.
13 reader(s) voted.
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