Ventilation and environment in relation to equine respiratory disease

Area of Science:

• Equine Science
• Animal Husbandry
• Veterinary Public Health

Background:

• Established physiological requirements for horses exist, but objective ventilation values for optimal health and disease prevention are lacking.
• Current practices rely on established principles and experience for effective ventilation.
• Equine respiratory diseases are a significant concern in stable environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline principles for adequate ventilation in equine facilities.
• To emphasize the importance of building design in promoting natural airflow.
• To discuss strategies for mitigating respiratory disease aggravation in horses.

Main Methods:

• Application of sound ventilation principles including stack effect, aspiration, and perflation.
• Recommendations for building design: good insulation, ample air space, and individual horse isolation.
• Consideration of fan assistance when natural airflow is insufficient.

Main Results:

• Natural airflow, when optimized through building design, can meet ventilation needs.
• Adequate ventilation aims to provide a constant surplus of fresh air.
• Ventilation strategies are expected to reduce aggravation from secondary infectious agents.

Conclusions:

• Ventilation based on natural airflow and sound design principles is recommended for equine facilities.
• Building design plays a critical role in achieving satisfactory ventilation and horse health.
• While not influencing primary viral agents, ventilation can minimize secondary infections in horses.