With fires burning in every state on the west coast plus Montana and hurricanes with flooding in Texas, Louisiana and soon Florida, it is the perfect time to review a few things we can do to help reduce the stress our equine partner may be facing. A few minutes spend supporting our horses after the disaster will help reduce the stress and problems down the road.
Wildfires – The unhealthy air containing wildfire smoke and particulates can build up in the respiratory system, causing a number of health problems including burning eyes, runny noses and illnesses such as bronchitis. They can also aggravate heart and lung diseases such as congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema and asthma.
The effects of smoke on horses are similar to effects on humans: irritation of the eyes and respiratory tract, aggravation of conditions like heaves (recurrent airway obstruction), and reduced lung function. High concentrations of particulates can cause persistent cough, increased nasal discharge, wheezing and increased physical effort in breathing. Particulates can also alter the immune system and reduce the ability of the lungs to remove foreign materials, such as pollen and bacteria, to which horses are normally exposed.
First-
- Limit any exercise. “If you see smoke don’t work your horse”.
- Provide constant access to clean water. Water keeps the airways moist and facilitates clearance of inhaled particulate matter.
If your horse is coughing or having difficulty breathing, have your horse examined by a veterinarian. A veterinarian can help determine the difference between a reactive airway from smoke and dust versus a bacterial infection and bronchitis or pneumonia. If your horse has a history of having heaves or recurrent airway problems, there is a greater risk of secondary problems such as bacterial pneumonia.
To minimize the effect of the smoke and ash we recommend the following products –
Body Balance Respiratory Formula – This herbal combination promotes a healthy respiratory system. It will assist the body in clearing upper respiratory congestion and boost the immune system.
Body Balance Immune Builder – This synergistic blend supports the immune system as well but is an anti-viral, anti-inflammatory and assists the kidney and liver function. This will head off any type of viral or bacterial conditions.
EquiSilver Wound Spray – This is a chelated would spray that can be used in and around the eye. It works wonders with conjunctivitis, weepy eyes. As it’s name implies it can also be used for burns and wounds,
Flooding – In fast rising floods horses can be swept into obstacles, including fences and corrugated iron, which can cause seriously injuries. Mud can pose a serious hazard for stranded horses. If trapped and immobile they can fracture a limb or seriously injure themselves struggling in deep, sticky mud. Eye injuries are commonly sustained when horses attempt to pull themselves free and hit their faces on stalls or fencing. Other hazards common to horses after floods include rainscald, mudfever, foot problems, pneumonia, wounds (especially to the legs), waterborne illnesses such as leptospirosis, and problems from drinking contaminated water or eating mouldy food.
As we have seen in the flooding in Houston, horses can handle extended water contact. Your horse can experience some limb swelling with prolonged water contact. In general, most horses can handle their limbs submerged for 48-72 hours.
To minimize the effect of the flooding we recommend the following products –
Body Balance Wellness Formula – Wellness Formula offers the horse’s immune systems multiple advantages in resisting pathogenic bacteria, viruses, protozoa, fungi, toxins, aflotoxins and environmental challenges.
Body Balance Immune Builder – This synergistic blend supports the immune system as well but is an anti-viral, anti-inflammatory and assists the kidney and liver function. This will head off any type of viral or bacterial conditions.
EquiSilver Wound Spray – This is a chelated wound spray that can be used in and around the eye. It works wonders with conjunctivitis weepy eyes. As it’s name implies it is excellent for wounds and punctures. It can also be used for rainscald, mudfever and other skin issues. Because it is chelated it can penetrate deeper than a normal topical spray.
The Take Away – The point of our email is not to sell product but to help you be prepared. Lets face it natural disasters can hit any of us. Are we prepared? Do we have an evacuation plan? Do we have a “To Go Bag” for our horses with ownership and health records. Do we have a way of identifying our horse with our contact information if you are separated? When you get the call to evacuate is not the time to put these items together. That is the time to care for family and animals and leave.
For those experiencing these natural disasters first hand our thoughts are with you for a safe return to your homes and ranches. Please be safe. Let us know how we can help.
Stay Safe and Ride Often
Ron
Ron Stalman
Managing Director
Balanced Eco Solutions
