06/10/2023
Posted • Smoke from wildfires in eastern Canada is causing poor air quality throughout the eastern coast of the United States. Horse owners should be aware of the negative effects the air conditions may have on horses and understand when it is safe to work them. 👇
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Smoke from more than 400 wildfires in eastern Canada has carried into the Northeastern United States, causing poor air quality and rising concerns among horse owners.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ranks air pollution and air quality on a scale of 0 to 500. Though the ranking system is geared toward people, the classifications also apply to horses. Particulate levels begin to pose dangers to horse health when they exceed 150, especially to horses with pre-existing health concerns. At this level owners should limit riding and exercise until the smoke clears and air quality improves. An AQI value above 300 is considered hazardous.
The negative effects of smoke inhalation are not always immediately apparent, and will be variable from horse to horse and the degree and type of smoke exposure. We encourage horse owners in affected areas to be diligent in monitoring the local air quality and to take extra caution with horses at higher risk of respiratory distress. Be sure to contact your veterinarian to evaluate horses showing any signs of respiratory inflammation (like coughing, respiratory distress, nasal discharge, fever).
To read more about how air quality can affect your horse’s respiratory health, please read this article courtesy of AAEP Educational Partner The Horse: https://thehorse.com/1110445/how-air-quality-impacts-horse-health/
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