Fly-spray help!
I own an almost 4y/o Standardbred filly, fresh off the track. She has been great in most aspects, other than her fear of being sprayed with a spray bottle. I know that I can wipe the spray on her with a cloth, and that is what we are doing now, but ideally I would really like to have her comfortable with being sprayed.
So far, I have tried rubbing the bottle itself all over her. She understands that the bottle isn't to fear, but as soon as she hears the noise (even if the bottle isn't directed towards her) she panicks. I have tried putting her in a rope halter with a long lead. I sprayed the bottle, let her react, and let her calm down on her own. Once she was calm again I would spray it again. The reaction decreased the first time I did this, but since then all she has done was to run around me in circles.
So, Equestrians, how have you solved the dilemma of horses who do not wish to be sprayed? I am worried about trying to bathe her for the very same reason... Ideas would be very much appreciated.
Pic of the baby in question:
