Spending time outside with your horse is the best, until the bugs show up. TickWise Work Horse Repellent from 3 Moms Organics is made to support both horse and rider with one gentle, plant-based spray, so you can gear up once and get back to riding, barn chores, and pasture time with more comfort and fewer interruptions.
Below is a safe, rider-friendly routine for applying Work Horse correctly, avoiding sensitive areas, and getting the most consistent coverage possible.
Quick Snapshot
A broad product lineup: 3 Moms Organics highlights a range of outdoor protection items including sprays, tools, and more.
One repellent designed for dual use: TickWise Work Horse is positioned as the go-to option for both horse and human use.
Sizes and price points vary: The brand notes a range of options depending on how often you ride and how many animals you’re protecting.
Key Takeaways
Apply an even, light layer to your horse’s coat, avoiding eyes, nostrils, and other sensitive areas.
For riders, focus on exposed skin and clothing, and use “spray hands first” for the face and neck area.
Apply before you head out, then reapply during longer sessions or after heavy sweat and water exposure.
Store it properly (cool, dry, out of direct sun) to keep the formula performing as intended.
Step 1: Choose a Smart Place to Apply
Pick a calm, well-ventilated spot where your horse feels comfortable. Shade is ideal. Avoid strong wind so the mist does not drift into eyes or get wasted before it settles on the coat.
A quiet environment also makes application easier, especially for sensitive or younger horses that do not love spray bottles.
Step 2: Prep Your Horse and Yourself
For your horse
Give a quick groom first. Knocking off dirt, sweat, and debris helps the spray contact the coat more evenly.
If your horse is damp, towel-dry the coat before spraying for better hold.
For the rider
Start with clean, dry skin if possible.
Lightweight, breathable clothing helps you stay comfortable while still giving you good coverage on fabric.
Step 3: Apply to Your Horse with Control and Comfort
Best practice
Mist the coat evenly using smooth, steady passes.
Concentrate on common “bug magnet” areas like neck, chest, belly line, legs, and under the mane and tail.
Avoid sensitive zones
Do not spray directly into the eyes, nostrils, mouth, or mucous membranes.
For the face, spray onto your hands (or a soft cloth) first, then gently apply where needed while steering clear of eyes and nostrils.
Step 4: Apply to Yourself (Skin, Clothes, and Gear)
On skin and clothing
Spray exposed areas like arms, legs, ankles, wrists, and neck.
For your face area, spray into your hands first, then lightly apply around the perimeter, avoiding eyes and mouth.
On riding gear
A light mist on items like boots and gloves can help.
For tack, go light and test a small spot first, especially on leather, to avoid oversaturation.
Step 5: Timing and Reapplication That Actually Works
Apply Work Horse about 15 to 20 minutes before you head outside so it can settle and start doing its job.
Reapply:
during long rides or turnout windows
after heavy sweat
after rain, bathing, or water exposure
when you are in peak insect activity areas
The article notes a general guideline of reapplying every 4 to 6 hours during active conditions.
Step 6: Patch Test for Sensitive Skin (Horse or Human)
Even with gentle, plant-based formulas, sensitivities can happen.
Test a small area on your horse first.
Test a small area on your own skin.
Watch for redness, itching, or swelling over the next day.
If irritation shows up, stop use and check in with a vet or medical professional if needed.
Step 7: Storage and Handling
To keep the formula consistent:
Store in a cool, dry place.
Keep out of direct sunlight and away from extreme temperatures.
Keep it out of reach of kids and pets.
Build a Bigger “Bug Plan” Around the Spray
Work Horse is strongest when it is part of a full routine, especially in high-bug areas. Consider layering with:
physical barriers like fly masks and fly sheets
clean stall and tack-area habits that discourage insects
citronella candles around the barn or camp setup
regular post-ride checks for both horse and rider
You can also keep a tick removal tool kit with your barn supplies or trail bag for peace of mind.
FAQs Riders Ask All the Time
Can I use this on my gear and tack?
Yes, lightly, and test first. Avoid soaking leather.
How often should I reapply?
During active conditions, refresh every 4 to 6 hours, and after sweat or water exposure.
What if it gets in eyes (mine or my horse’s)?
Rinse right away with plenty of clean water. If irritation continues, seek professional guidance.
Is it okay for sensitive horses?
It is positioned as gentle, but always patch test first.
Common Misunderstandings (and What to Do Instead)
Myth: “It’s only for horses, not riders.”
Work Horse is presented as a dual-use formula, so you can protect your horse and yourself with one product.
Myth: “More spray equals more protection.”
Overdoing it can create discomfort without improving results. Use a light, even layer, then reapply when conditions call for it.
Myth: “You can’t safely use it near sensitive areas.”
You should not spray sensitive areas directly, but you can apply carefully using the hands-first method for more controlled coverage.
Simple Pre-Ride Checklist
Groom horse quickly
Apply to coat (avoid eyes and nostrils)
Apply to rider skin and clothing (hands-first for face area)
Light mist on select gear if desired
Wait 15 to 20 minutes before heading out
Bring a smaller bottle for longer rides
Reapply as needed and store properly afterward
🛒 Get TickWise for year-round routines:
https://3momsorganics.com/collections/tick-repellent
