Your horse's health is paramount to us. And yours is just as important. Today on our blog, we're looking at an often-overlooked aspect – air quality in indoor riding arenas. A recent study has brought interesting findings about the bacterial load in the air of riding arenas and its potential impact on both horses and riders. You might think that an indoor arena isn't as dusty as outdoors, but the opposite can be true!
What did the study find? Scientists thoroughly analyzed the air in four different indoor riding arenas throughout the year. They focused on the presence of bacteria before and after riding with one horse. The results were quite surprising:
- The amount of bacteria in the air significantly increased after riding. The movement of the horse and the disturbance of the arena surface contribute to the release of microorganisms into the air.
- The concentration of bacteria was similar in the breathing zone of riders (2.5 m) and horses (1.5 m). This means that the potential risk of inhalation is similar for both.
- Gram-positive bacteria predominated, especially various species of the genus Staphylococcus, with Staphylococcus xylosus accounting for up to 80% of them.
- The main source of these bacteria was likely the arena surface. The footing that horses walk and run on can thus be a reservoir for microorganisms.
Why should this concern us? You might now be wondering what this actually means for us and our horses. Increased bacterial load in the air can have potential negative effects on the respiratory system of horses:
- Irritation of the respiratory tract and increased mucus production.
- Worsening of symptoms in horses with existing respiratory diseases (RAO, IAD).
- Potential increased susceptibility to secondary respiratory infections.
- Reduced performance due to impaired breathing.
Although the study did not directly examine the impact on riders, it is logical to assume that long-term exposure to increased amounts of bacteria and dust particles may not be ideal for our health either.
What can we do about it? Even though we don't have direct control over the bacterial load in every riding arena, there are steps that can help improve air quality and minimize potential risks:
- Regular watering of the arena surface: A moistened surface creates less dust and releases fewer particles into the air.
- Good ventilation of the riding arena: Ensuring air circulation helps to remove dust and microorganisms.
- Using quality bedding in stables: Reducing dust in stables can also impact the air quality in adjacent riding arenas.
- Regular maintenance and cleaning of the riding arena.
In our e-shop, you will find products that can help you care for your horse's health:
- Crystalina nutritional supplements, which aid in detoxification, regeneration of the body, and the removal of acids, toxins, and waste substances from the body.
- Herbs suitable for healthy lungs.
We believe that awareness is the first step towards better care for our horses. Even seemingly inconspicuous factors, such as the air quality in a riding arena, can have a significant impact on their health and well-being.