Yes—Your Animals Can Join Too
As the leaves fall and the hay bales stack up, it’s that sweet in-between season at the barn: one part “We survived fly season!” and one part “Let’s cozy up for winter.” Whether you’re still kicking flies to the curb, or you’re starting to unpack winter blankets, now’s a fun time to treat your animals (and yourself) to something special. Still eating the Halloween candy you swore was for the kids? No judgment. Just don’t forget to whip up some barn-safe treats for your four-legged friends too.
Bye Bye Flies, Hello Holiday Comfort
First, a quick reminder: while you’re planning fall treats, don’t forget about your barn environment. Ammonia from moist bedding, stalls, and indoor animal living areas can build up quickly now that your animals are spending more time inside the barn or trailer. Cleaner air means happier animals and fewer irritants—so make sure you’re keeping ammonia at a safe level. Remove wet bedding regularly and spray Bye Bye Odor on wet spots to break down ammonia at the source. Unlike products that absorb urine, Bye Bye Odor comes in a small, easy to apply spray. The microbial formula continues to work long after the first application as microbes seek additional stinky stuff to feed on.
Barn-Friendly Fall Treats
Make the barn festive this month! Fall-flavored treats and fresh, clean stalls go a long way toward “that fall feeling”. These easy-to-make recipes are perfect for grooming time, post-ride cookie rewards, or just to show gratitude for your four-legged family members. These treat recipes are also a great way to use extra pumpkin puree, which is rich in nutrients and supports digestive health!
Pumpkin Spice Treats:
Here’s a simple treat recipe your four-legged family will love:
Ingredients
- 4 cups whole oats (quick or old-fashioned)
- 1 can pumpkin puree (plain—NOT pumpkin pie mix)
- 2 cups water (slightly less if you add apple sauce)
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1¾ cups whole wheat flour (regular flour works too)
- 2 tsp cinnamon
Optional Ingredients
- 1 tbsp honey or molasses – for sweetness and to help bind ingredients together
- Dash of turmeric – for added gut health benefits
- Chia seeds – for omega 3’s
- Sugar-free apple sauce, shredded apples, shredded carrots, peanut butter, or mushed banana for extra flavor. Use your horse’s favorite!
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a baking sheet. Whisk together pumpkin + water, then stir in oats, flour, baking powder, and spices. Fold in any optional ingredients – the mix may be quite wet, but should not be runny. Drop spoonfuls of the mix onto a greased sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until firm.
Peanut Butter Cookies:
Here’s a peanut butter version your crew will be sure to enjoy:
Ingredients
- ¾ cup pumpkin puree (plain—NOT pumpkin pie mix)
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter (no xylitol!)
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
Directions
Preheat to 375°F and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. Whisk together pumpkin, egg yolk, and peanut butter. Combine dry ingredients in a separate bowl, then slowly add them into the pumpkin mix. The dough will be very dry. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and roll out to approximately ¼” thick, then cut shapes with a cookie cutter or knife. Re-combine dough scraps and repeat until all dough is used. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until firm.
Safety Note
Do not add any chocolates, xylitol, or spices that are harmful to dogs. Do not use dairy ingredients like yogurt for horse treats, as dairy can cause digestive upset in horses.
Our Season-End Reminder: Stay Ahead of Next Year’s Flies
While you’re planning holiday treats, think ahead to spring too. Treat yourself and your animals to a more comfortable 2026 by planning your fly control now. Our entomologist-led approach shows that starting Fly Predators early leads to the best results all summer long. Keep your barn more comfortable year-round by preparing for the season before it begins.
Thanks for being part of the Spalding Labs community. From Halloween giggles to Thanksgiving gratitude, we’re glad you’re with us! Here’s to treats for your animals, peace of mind for your barn, and days spent doing what you love.
Happy baking and happy barn time to you and your families!