08/05/2026
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DWaPksJDf/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Great article for us to read on air quality as we work with our four legged besties!
Smoke and exercise: How much is too much for our equine athletes?
As we enter yet another fire season, our air quality index (AQI) is reaching unhealthy levels.
Horses with known or suspected equine asthma are most sensitive to changes in air quality, but all horses are affected. Inhalation of smoke is irritating to the respiratory tract and can result in: reduced lung function, increased nasal discharge, increased respiratory rate and effort, cough, and exacerbation of equine asthma.
There are no strict setpoints established but consider these as guidelines for activity while the air quality is affected by smoke:
- AQI > 150: Otherwise healthy horses- avoid strenuous activity. Horses with asthma- monitor for signs of airway irritation and avoid exercise if any signs seen; otherwise no obvious signs of difficulty, can continue light exercise.
- AQI > 200: Otherwise healthy horses- limit to light exercise. Horses with asthma- no forced exercise.
Everyone take care of yourselves and stay safe out there! If you’d like some additional information, please follow the links below!
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Link for AQI- https://www.airnow.gov/?
Link for more information on smoke inhalation in horses- https://www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/news/guidelines-horses-exposed-wildfire-smoke?fbclid=IwY2xjawTe36dwZG9mBWV4dG4DYWVtAjExAHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR4xB3bjV0Q7HVimIJ7mZpjQXxFKkn3o8DvWAuSsiwSTu4rSb5PKBeaGF0exmA_aem_jp5YFcyu0PPKQR0yPOaHww
