06/09/2026
Hey y'all,
If you're receiving this message, it's because you're a boarder, caretaker, or otherwise come into contact with animals at Ragtime Ranch.
I wanted to address some precautions we'll be taking regarding the recent screwworm concerns in Texas. As far as I can tell, there is no reason to panic at this time, but we will be taking preventative measures to help protect all of our animals.
Screwworms can be deadly because they enter even very small wounds—such as minor cuts or nips from pasture mates—and can quickly cause severe tissue damage. The best defense is prevention and early detection.
For all boarders, here's what we'll be doing:
Fly spray, and more fly spray.
We will be spraying horses as consistently as possible. I encourage everyone to help one another when needed so we can keep all horses protected. I'll be placing fly spray at each pasture for easy access.
Fly control measures. We will be adding fly bait throughout the property to help reduce the fly population.
Manure management. Keeping manure picked up as much as possible will help reduce breeding areas for flies.
Feed-through fly control. I will be starting my horses on a feed-through fly repellent. If you would like me to add it to your horse's grain as well, please let me know.
Fly sheets. I know fly sheets are expensive, and horses have a talent for destroying them. While I can't purchase fly sheets for even all of mine I may try to get a few here and there .
Wound Care. Check for cuts, scrapes, unusual swelling, drainage, foul odors, or any wounds that don't appear to be healing normally. If you notice anything concerning, please let me know right away.
Again, there is no need for alarm, but I believe taking reasonable precautions now is the best way to keep everyone safe and healthy.
We are also seeing heavy tick activity this year, particularly Lone Star ticks. Please check your animals regularly, especially around the ears, mane, tail, between the legs, under halters, and other areas where ticks like to hide.
