MSRP: $19.95 for a 32oz spray bottle (not available as concentrate)
RATING: **** (4 out of 5)
One of my clients, who switches fly spray brands like celebs switch hairstyles, bought "Green Hippo Organic Fly Spray" by Paddock Pride a couple of months ago, and I have to say I'm impressed!
Green Hippo is a blend of organic cedar oil in a water base - it contains no pyrethrins or citronella like most other fly sprays.
I'm not the type of person who makes buying decisions based on what's "green" or "environmentally friendly" - I've never gone to the supermarket looking for organic, free-range chicken, and my tack store buys are based solely on what's best for my animals and my wallet. So imagine my pleasant surprise when I started using Green Hippo. Not only does it actually kill and repel flies, but it actually continues to do so for more than fifteen minutes! In my experience, Green Hippo worked for up to two hours, even when the horse was sweating, and longer when the horse was at rest. It also smells good without being overpowering.
The downside is the price. I've seen it in local stores for as low as $16.99, but that's still expensive, even compared to the higher-end Farnam and Absorbine products. Also, be sure to spot-test your horse before applying. Some horses are susceptible to skin irritation/allergic reactions to certain oils.
