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A great new option for eye protection
If you’re like me you’re constantly searching for a fly mask that actually protects the eyes instead of just covering them up. I finally found something that is the best thing I’ve ever used. We’ve been treating our 17 year old large pony for a corneal ulcer that emerged in literally one day back in mid June. She’d been rubbing the eye against her leg and anything else she could scratch it on. The ordinary fly masks, even with the tough mesh, just weren’t up to the task, plus they collapse onto the face. After two months of treating it and making some progress, I took her in to be evaluated by the equine ophthalmology team at the Univ. of Georgia vet school. They diagnosed her with keratitis and the outlook is promising for a recovery. But by far the best thing of all was their recommendation to use the Equivizor Recovery Visor. I’ve included photos here.
It’s an amazing semi-flexible clear plastic eye protector that is the absolute best thing I’ve ever used. The pros: it fits beautifully and nothing – absolutely nothing – about it rubs her face, muzzle or poll; it is clear so you can see into it rather than wondering what’s going on in there; and it has ventilation so air flows through it. It also has it’s own black mesh “jacket” for sun protection, which goes on over the visor during turnout. It doesn’t get in the way of lying down or rolling and it can be worn with a grazing muzzle if you use one. She doesn’t object to wearing it so it must not be uncomfortable. The cons: it’s expensive. Costs around $250. But I’ve easily spent that on about five different mask solutions, none of which work as well as this. It was developed in Australia to provide eye protection of all kinds for horses and dogs. It’s marketed in the US by Protective Pet Solutions, I’ve attached several photos.
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2 Replies
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Thanks @SandraC – I saw this at your farm and was really impressed with the construction and, more importantly, your mare’s willingness to wear it. The mask stays away from the face and eye and the amount of air flow prevents the accumulation of sweat. I also liked the way the fly mask fits perfectly over this device preventing flies from entering the ventilation holes.
This is a thoughtful solution to horses (and dogs) that need eye protection. Interestingly, she doesn’t seem to want to rub the eye when wearing it.
The catalog also showed goggles for eye protection while riding in harsh environments – they even come in shaded plastic.
Thanks for sharing!
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Really cool, @SandraC. Thanks for sharing!
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