In horses with heaves, dust, mold and other environmental factors can trigger an acute episode, commonly called a heaves flare up. If that happens, call your veterinarian immediately. Do not administer any medications without specific instructions from your veterinarian, and instead do the following:

• Keep the horse quiet and still. Any agitation or exertion during a heaves flare up can tax his already-limited intake of oxygen. Letting him stand with a quiet buddy may help keep him calm. Avoid feeding hay or concentrates, however—the dusts they contain may aggravate his condition.

• Get him some fresh air. If the horse is in a stall or a dusty paddock, walk him out to an open grassy area or even a parking lot—away from the allergens that may be provoking the condition. Some horses develop a related condition, called summer pasture-associated heaves, caused by exposure to pollens and other allergens in open fields. In that’s the case, move the horse into a clean, well-ventilated stall. An air-conditioned space—if you have one available that can safely accommodate your horse—is an even better option. Cooler, less humid air is easier to breathe, and the filters in the unit remove dusts, pollens and other particles.

Vital signs matter

• Monitor his vital signs. Count the number of times per minute your horse breathes in and out—then check again every five minutes or so. If his breathing rate increases drastically, his condition could be getting worse, and you’ll want to call your veterinarian with an update. Also keep tabs on the color of your horse’s gums, and alert your veterinarian if they’re extremely pale or bluish in color; this is a sign of oxygen deprivation. Temperature and heart rate can also be useful information for your veterinarian.

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