Why Diesel?

[robertwhite]

Why is diesel used to mix fly repellent such as Permethrin and pour on a cattle rub (sock)? I would think that it can't be good for a calf who licks it, or a momma licking her calf, no?

 

[Jogeephus]

I wouldn't think that the ingestion of permethrin would be any better for them if in fact they don't turn up their noses to it and actually ingest it.

 

[highgrit]

Diesel fuel is a good insect repellent by its self. And it is also a good wetting agent.

 

[High Cotton]

My educated guess its used because it's a thin oily substance commonly found on the farm. The oil helps the Permethrin stay on their coat. I think it's diluted enough I doesnt harm them. I have got it in my mouth a few times. It tasted horrible, but I'm still alive.

 

[robertwhite]

OK, I have to come clean............. I asked this question after hanging a sock for the first time between 2 posts (high enough that they can go under it) and the first thing one of my calves did was go over and lick it. :frowns: I scolded her and she stopped, but then it made me think about the question I posted.

I am mainly doing the sock as an experiment as I spray my cows once a week or so (Permectrin and water mix) and it seems to have ZERO effect on the fly problem around their bodies. Hopefully, the diesel will make a difference.

 

[High Cotton]

I think without an oil mixed in it has very short residual protection.

 

[robertwhite]

I think without an oil mixed in it has very short residual protection.

Guess I will find out in a couple of days, when I lower it so it rubs.

How often do you have to "recharge" the sock? Does rain effect it?

Thanks

 

[I luv herfrds]

I would re-charge our sock about every other week or when I noticed the flies were getting bad again.