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Respiratory conditions are the second leading cause of poor performance in speed horses, following only musculoskeletal injuries. Conditions such as exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH), equine asthma (EA), and dynamic upper airway obstructions (UAOs) are common in this population. Each poses unique challenges, and often these issues overlap—compounding respiratory strain, increasing …

Rodeo speed horses—whether barrel racing, pole bending, or timed events—are among the most finely tuned athletes, combining explosive power, agility, and stamina, yet one critical aspect of their performance often goes overlooked: their respiratory system. Understanding how these horses breathe, how their lungs support high-intensity exertion, and the respiratory challenges they face i …

In 3-day eventing and jumping, a horse’s performance depends on its ability to take in and process oxygen efficiently. However, respiratory challenges often go unnoticed despite their significant impact on performance. Unlike the heart and muscles, the lungs don’t adapt to training or selective breeding, making them the biggest bottleneck in equine athleticism. The Challenges of Oxygen …

Breathing is everything for a horse—whether they’re training, competing, or simply enjoying a ride. But when horse respiratory stress sets in, it can impact their performance, recovery, and overall health. Unlike humans, during exercise horses can only breathe through their noses, making any airway restriction a serious concern. From labored breathing and excessive nostril flaring to c …