07/21/2026
Thank you The Athletic Horse, PLC - Patrick H Young DVM
Definitely the question of the day. 💫
🔥 Wildfire Smoke & Your Horse: Should You Exercise?
Wildfire season is here in Central Oregon, and while we often adjust our own outdoor activities based on air quality, it's just as important to consider the impact on our equine partners.
Smoke contains fine particulate matter that can irritate your horse's respiratory tract. Even healthy horses can experience decreased performance and airway inflammation when exercising in smoky conditions.
Here are a few recommendations to help keep your horse safe:
✅ Check the Air Quality Index (AQI).
Before riding, look at your local air quality. As smoke increases, it's time to decrease exercise intensity. You can check the air quality by visiting https://aqi.oregon.gov/.
• AQI 0-50: Low Risk
• AQI 51- 100: Moderate Risk
• AQI 101–150: Sensitive Population Risk
• AQI 151–200: High Risk
• AQI 201–300: Very High Risk
• AQI above 300: Hazardous Conditions
💧 Keep fresh water available.
Hydration supports normal respiratory function and overall health.
🚫 Limit dust exposure.
If your horse is stalled, consider soaking hay if appropriate and minimizing dusty bedding or sweeping while horses are inside.
⚠️ Watch for warning signs.
Contact your veterinarian if you notice:
• Increased respiratory rate at rest
• Persistent coughing
• Nasal discharge
• Labored breathing
• Reduced performance or unusual fatigue
💚 Remember:
Every horse is different. Performance horses, horses with a history of respiratory disease, and older horses may need additional precautions.
Stay safe, and give your horses a little extra grace until we can all enjoy those clear Central Oregon skies again.
***Just use common sense, if you have a horse with preexisting respiratory issues, avoid further insult. I personally think healthy horses that are fit can be lightly ridden in the high risk range, just avoid overheating and labored breathing.
Above 300 is probably not gonna be much fun for horse or rider.
