Smoke, a very dangerous mix of gases like carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, soot, hydrocarbons, and other organic substances is one of the biggest threateners not only for the environment but also very dangerous for humans. But have you ever thought how dangerous can it be for horses? Smoke can irritate horses’ eyes and respiratory tracts, and hamper their breathing.
“Owners should limit their horses’ activity when smoke is visible, It’s also important to provide horses with plenty of fresh water, which keeps airways moist and helps them clear inhaled particulates,” said UC Davis veterinary professor John Madigan. During California wildfires with persistent smoke several years ago, the Tevis Cup, a 100-mile endurance race was postponed based on adverse air quality for exercising horses.
This is an example of important management decisions that can protect horse health. It is important to use human health air-quality advisories and apply them to horse events where horses will be exercising and breathing harmful smoke. If humans’ eyes burn and are bothered by smoke, you can assume horses will be too. It is important to use human health air-quality advisories and apply them to horse events where horses will be exercising and breathing harmful smoke.
If humans’ eyes burn and are bothered by smoke, you can assume horses will be in the same boat. Providing horses with resting from exercise, limiting smoke exposure when possible, and monitoring for signs of increased respiratory rate or cough should be at the top of owners’ to-do lists when wildfires are near. And if a concern arises, consult your veterinarian.
