Recognizing and managing dust allergy in horses
A horse that is affected by dust usually has less endurance. The nostrils are slightly open, the horse coughs, and you can see the belly moving more than usual. This means that the breathing rate is higher. There are roughly two things you can do to counteract dust allergy: improve your stable management and provide supplements.
Multiple studies show that the measures you take in your horse's environment to prevent dust are the most important. Supplements to support the respiratory system can be used if the problem is not completely resolved. Therefore, always start by optimizing your stable management!
Tips against dust
To minimize your horse's exposure to dust and reduce respiratory problems, you can do the following:
- Turn out the horse outdoors more often instead of keeping it in the stable
- Provide mold-free hay with little dust
- Soak the hay
- Consider using alternative bedding
- Keep the stable clean and dust-free
- Only bed the stall when the horse is turned out
- Avoid sweeping or blowing when the horse is in the stable
Herbs to soothe respiratory problems
There are several herbs that can help alleviate respiratory problems. Often, these herbs work by promoting healthy mucus production in the 'hair vessels' of the lungs, the bronchi. With good mucus formation, the cilia present can effectively remove unwanted substances such as fine dust, bacteria, and viruses, keeping the lungs clean. Herbs that contribute to this include eucalyptus, echinacea and schisandra. Eucalyptus has antibacterial properties against various types of streptococcus bacteria that are often involved in lung infections and coughing. Eucalyptus has also been proven effective against different influenza viruses. Purple coneflower (Echinacea sp) has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This herb has been shown to boost the immune system of horses, stimulating their resistance and immune response. Research on the effect of Schisandra chinesis on the respiration of endurance horses has shown that this Eastern herb reduces the basic breathing rate and post-exercise breathing rate. This indicates that lung capacity increases with the use of this herb. The resting heart rate was also lower, indicating better overall condition due to Schisandra. Finally, black cumin can also support respiratory problems. This ancient natural remedy is a powerful anti-inflammatory and has antiviral properties. It supports metabolism and the immune system.
Omega-3 fatty acids against coughing
In addition to an herbal supplement, the use of omega-3 fatty acids can be beneficial for coughing and dust allergies. In a randomized, blinded study with horses suffering from lung problems and asthma, a supplement containing polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids was found to have a positive effect on top of a low-dust diet. The horses received the omega-3 supplement for two months. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in sources such as salmon oil for horses.
Sources:
Salari, M.H., G. Amine, M.H. Shirazi, R. Hafezi, and M. Mohammadypour. 2005. Antibacterial effects of Eucalyptus globulus leaf extract on pathogenic bacteria isolated from specimens of patients with respiratory tract disorders. Research Note, Tehran University of Medical Sciences. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1198743X14634091
Zili Zhai, Yi Liu, Lankun Wu, David S. Senchina, Eve S. Wurtele, Patricia A. Murphy, Marian L. Kohut, and Joan E. Cunnick. 2007. Enhancement of Innate and Adaptive Immune Functions by Multiple Echinacea Species. Journal of Medicinal Food. https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/jmf.2006.257
Nogradi N., L.L. Couetil, J. Messick, M.A. Stochelski, J.R. Burgess. 2014. Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation Provides an Additional Benefit to a Low-Dust Diet in the Management of Horses with Chronic Lower Airway Inflammatory Disease. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jvim.12488
Van Zyl, Janke. Evaluation of the ergogenic potential of two feed supplements in endurance horses. 2014. Dissertation University of Pretoria. https://repository.up.ac.za/handle/2263/79199