Horses Exposed to Wildfire Smoke Steps you can take to lessen the effects.

Early wildfires this spring have exposed many Albertans to harmful levels of smoke particulate. While there is little information available on the effects of smoke inhalation on horses, horse health experts say we can assume the effects are similar on equines as they are on humans.

Here are some general guidelines to help limit damage to horses’ lungs and speed up the recovery process once the smoke has cleared.

1. Limit exercise when smoke is noticeable. Experts agree that an Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) of seven or higher means humans (and horses) should consider reducing or rescheduling strenuous outdoor activities. An AQHI of ten or more should be a no-go for outdoor activities and exercise. Visit weather.gc.ca/airquality/pages/ to access your local AQHI.

2. If your horse is on hay, feed only dust-free hay or soak it in water before feeding to eliminate exposure to additional lung irritants.

3. Make sure your horse has access to plenty of fresh water.

4. Have a vet examine your horse if they are coughing, wheezing, or having difficulty breathing.

5. If your horse has suffered smoke-related damage to their lungs, horse health practitioners advise giving them at least four to six weeks to heal before returning to work or training. AB