Midg-E deals with root cause of equine sweet-itch
Horse owners can relax this summer without the worry of sweet-itch affecting their horses thanks to Calor’s bug-busting Midg-E.
The device forms part of the Midgeater Range of products designed to reduce biting midge populations and midge bite irritation in horses which can cause infection, hair loss and deep discomfort at its worst.
Developed in partnership with Dundee-based engineering firm Texol and Advanced Pest Solutions, the Midg-E uses the same technology as the larger, more expensive Midgeaters, but instead of generating its own electricity to drive the fans which blow out the carbon dioxide-based midge attractant and suck midges into the trap, the new machine has a low voltage power supply which is connected to an electric socket.
With summer being the most popular time to buy and sell horses, sweet-itch can be declared as ‘unsoundness’ resulting in the horse failing pre-sale veterinary inspections or causing problems with insurance.
Calor’s Hamish Husband comments: “There’s more to the Midg-E than making midge populated areas more pleasant for people, it can be a major relief for animals too, particularly horses where the Midgeater range has been seen to decrease incidences of sweet-itch. It is small, so easy to set up in a yard and tests have shown when placed outside a stable door can dramatically reduce midge populations and therefore relieve horses of the troublesome symptoms, and horse owners of months of worry.”
Dr Alison Blackwell of Advanced Pest Solutions, and leading midge expert, comments: “The products in the Midgeater range, if used correctly can play a vital role in effective midge management programmes, gradually reducing the overall midge population and complementing immediate means of protection such as traditaional repellent products. It is also important that horse owners consider the layout and management of their yards too, as this too can help reduce midge activity.”
Symptoms of sweet-itch in horses include severe itching, hair loss, skin thickening and flaky dandruff. In some cases weeping sores - exudative dermatitis - can lead to secondary infections.
The disease is a delayed hypersensitivity to insect bites and results in an over-vigorous response by the animal’s immune system. In the process of repelling invading insect saliva the horse attacks some of its own skin cells ‘by mistake’ and the resulting cell damage causes the symptoms of sweet-itch.
Retailing at £379 the Midg-E is a cost effective solution compared to the vets bills and other problems associated with sweet-itch. Midg-E and the other products in the Midgeater range can be purchased online at www.midgeater.co.uk.
Horse-owners can also be prepared for increased midge activity by logging onto the Midge Forecast at www.Midgeforecast.co.uk and larger organisations might consider professional consultancy in helping to reduce their biting insect problem (www.advancedpestsolutions.co.uk).
Notes to editors:
Pictures attached: Clydesdale cross, Mr Toast, squares up to giant midge to launch the Midg-E