07/17/2026
Dear Clients,
As a result of the devastating wildfires affecting Canada currently, the Air Quality Index in Michigan has been reaching hazardous levels, and we are currently under a statewide Air Quality Alert. It is anticipated to improve somewhat this weekend, but is likely to continue to fluctuate until the Canadian wildfires subside.
Hazardous air quality levels can be dangerous for people and animals alike. It can be especially challenging for horses and livestock that are unable to fully get away from the outdoor environment. It can also pose a more significant risk to horses with existing respiratory conditions or ocular conditions. Recommendations for reducing damage from smoke inhalation for your horses include avoiding exercise, prioritizing good ventilation and air movement, continuing to provide unlimited fresh water, and reducing dust where able, such as wetting hay before feeding. Even a moderate air quality level can negatively affect respiratory health; the United States Equestrian Federation recommends avoiding competition if the Air Quality Index exceeds 150. In addition to avoiding exercise in the short term, horses affected by smoke inhalation may need a prolonged rest period of multiple weeks before safely returning to work.
We are here to help and guide you if you observe signs of respiratory distress in your horses. Watch for coughing, increased effort breathing such as flaring nostrils or dramatic abdominal movement, or a resting respiratory rate consistently above 30 breaths per minute. You can measure respiratory rate yourself by setting a timer and counting your horse’s breaths over the course of one minute. If you have concerns, we can work with you to develop an individualized treatment and recovery plan for your horse.
UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine has released guidelines for managing horses exposed to smoke inhalation. Please visit https://cehhorsereport.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/news/guidelines-horses-exposed-wildfire-smoke for more information.
We hope that you and your loved ones (both two-legged and four-legged) remain safe and healthy, and our hearts stay with those enduring the direct devastation of the wildfires.
Best wishes,
Dr. Kim, Dr. Michelle, Dr. Alison, and the Four Winds Equine Hospital team
Fires throughout California and the western United States in recent years have exposed humans and horses to unhealthy air containing wildfire smoke and particulates.
