Breathing Easy: Comprehensive Strategies for Equine Respiratory Wellness

Have you ever tried to sprint when you have phlegm in your lungs? Or do push-ups with a stuffy nose? Now imagine that you don't even have the option of breathing through your mouth! Like us, our horses won't be able to perform at peak levels when their respiratory systems are compromised. In this blog, we will give you science-backed tools you can use to improve your horse’s respiratory health to keep them in top condition!

In the intricate world of equine athleticism, horse respiratory health stands as a crucial element often overlooked. As obligatory nasal breathers, horses rely solely on breathing through their noses during exercise, facing twice the difficulty in moving air into their lungs due to the heightened resistance. This resistance, primarily originating in the nasal passages, poses unique challenges during physical exertion.

The horse's respiratory system is a marvel of precision and adaptation. The lungs, while possessing a total capacity of around 60 liters, can only utilize approximately 18 liters during exertion due to the limitations imposed by the chest cavity and heart size. You may be surprised to learn that unlike other bodily systems, the respiratory system doesn't undergo training with exercise - the amount of air moved in and out remains constant regardless of the horse's fitness level. A horse’s breath is directly correlated to their stride (respiratory-locomotor coupling), so any respiratory issues directly impact their performance. Did you know that horses even hold their breath over jumps?

The respiratory system facilitates the exchange of oxygen crucial for energy production for muscular activity during strenuous exercise. High-intensity exercise requires a substantial amount of oxygen. For example, in a 5-furlong race (5/8 of a mile), a horse moves an astounding 1,800 liters of air. The intricate process of oxygen transfer from the airways to the bloodstream involves thin membranes and a vast surface area, making the lungs a central player in energy production.

This process is not without vulnerabilities, as the stress of exercise may lead to exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH). Moreover, the respiratory system extends beyond oxygen exchange, playing a critical role in regulating body temperature, filtering out viruses and bacteria, and ensuring efficient carbon dioxide removal. The use of innovative solutions, such as FLAIR Strips, OE Wind, and the Flexineb System aim to reduce airflow resistance and support optimal respiratory function. 

OE Wind

OE Wind is an oral supplement by OE Nutraceuticals crafted to support optimal respiratory functions in performance horses. This carefully formulated product incorporates a blend of essential minerals, vitamins, and beneficial bacteria to aid in promoting normal breathing. Featuring live, naturally occurring microorganisms, OE Wind assists in loosening mucus, soothing and opening airways, and enhancing endurance.

OE Wind contains octacosanol which has been shown to improve energy storage in the muscles, improve endurance, quicken reaction time, and improve oxygen utilization. The dilation of airways facilitated by OE Wind results in increased breath volume which can increase performance, provide symptom relief, and promote healing in horses with respiratory conditions. A dose is 20ccs and each tube contains four doses. For treating a respiratory condition, give 20ccs per day to the horse until you reach the desired result. For pre-competition, give 20ccs approximately 2 hours before the competition.

OE Nutraceuticals Quality Assurance

OE Nutraceuticals distinguishes itself by offering top-tier products at prices significantly more affordable than their competitors. Their commitment to excellence is evident in the use of higher levels of active ingredients, a synergistic approach with multiple key ingredients, minimal fillers, and ethical product labeling. The company's dedication to quality extends to manufacturing, conducted in certified facilities meeting GMP, SQF, HACCP, and NASC standards. They stringently adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices, food safety, hazard analysis, and critical control points. OE Nutraceuticals utilizes trademarked and case-studied ingredients prioritizing scientific data over unsubstantiated claims. Developed by veterinarians with input from equine nutritionists, their products undergo rigorous testing and improvement processes. You can rest assured that any supplement you purchase from OE Nutraceuticals will be effective, consistent, and safe. 

FLAIR® Equine Nasal Strips

FLAIR Strips are a revolutionary solution for enhancing the respiratory health and performance of equine athletes, devised by veterinarians to address the unique challenges horses face during intensive exercise. These drug-free, self-adhesive nasal strips gently support the soft tissue over the nasal passages to reduce airway resistance and improve airflow. The spring-like action of FLAIR Strips minimizes tissue collapse during exercise, making it easier for horses to breathe in vital oxygen.

Whether bulldogging, barrel racing, jumping, or racing, equine athletes of all disciplines can benefit greatly from FLAIR Strips. FLAIR Strips help your horse with a host of respiratory challenges: breathing easier, reducing fatigue, optimizing recovery and performance, improving stride efficiency, and reducing lung bleeding.

Breathe Easier and Reduce Fatigue:

By supporting the nasal passages, FLAIR Strips aid in reducing the collapse of soft tissues during exercise, particularly in the narrowest part of the upper airway. This not only facilitates easier breathing, allowing horses to take in the same amount of air with less effort but also mitigates fatigue. Horses wearing FLAIR Strips have demonstrated a 5-6% reduction in energy exertion during intensive exercise, enabling them to work longer and harder.

Optimized Recovery and Performance:

The benefits extend to the recovery phase, where supported nasal passages enhance airflow, aiding horses in cooling down more efficiently. This, in turn, promotes faster recovery and can contribute to preventing fatigue-related injuries.

Impact on Stride Efficiency:

The synchronization of breathing and stride in galloping horses is a crucial aspect of stride efficiency. FLAIR Strips play a role in this synchronization, supporting horses in taking deeper and longer breaths during speed increases. This improved breathing pattern facilitates stride lengthening and adjustment, increasing overall stride efficiency.

Reducing Lung Bleeding and EIPH:

FLAIR Strips have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing lung bleeding during high-intensity exercise, a condition known as Exercise Induced Pulmonary Hemorrhage (EIPH). The strips work by normalizing pressure across the pulmonary capillary membrane, reducing the likelihood of ruptures and subsequent bleeding. EIPH, a common but often undetected issue, can contribute to fatigue, poor performance, and long-term lung damage.

Management of Horse Breathing Problems:

Beyond EIPH, FLAIR Strips are recognized for their potential in alleviating various respiratory issues. The strips can benefit horses with conditions such as Heaves, Recurrent Airway Obstruction (RAO), Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Inflammatory Airway Disease (IAD), Asthma, and even help reduce noise in horses with paralyzed arytenoid cartilage ("roarers"). The strips improve airflow throughout the entire respiratory system, making them a versatile tool for managing various breathing challenges.

Extended Use and Safety:

FLAIR Strips are not only effective but also safe for extended use. With medical-grade adhesive, they can be left on for more than a day, offering continuous support to the air passages for extended periods.

Tips & Tricks

1. Store FLAIR® Strips at room temperature.

Strips that are exposed to extreme heat or cold may damage the medical-grade adhesive and not adhere properly. If it's chilly outside and a FLAIR Strip will be used, we recommend placing the Strip inside your jacket for 5-10 minutes before applying to allow the Strip to warm up to at least room temperature.

2. Apply FLAIR Strips at least 30 minutes prior to any activity.

For best results, apply the Strips 30 minutes prior to any exercise, riding or other activity that might cause the horse to sweat.

3. Apply Strips to a clean, dry nose.

Use a clean, dry cloth, piece of vet wrap, or paper towel to remove dirt and oil prior to applying. DO NOT use water or gels on the application area.

4. DO NOT shave the horse’s nose prior to applying.

FLAIR Strips have a unique adhesive that is designed to flow into and adhere to the horse’s hair.

5. Remove oils from the horse's hair before applying the Strip.

If oils have been applied on the horse's hair, wash the horse's nose with a bit of mild dish soap, like Dawn, to help remove oils from the hair before applying your Strip. Let the hair fully dry before following the other application steps.

6. Additional adhesives may be harmful and are NOT recommended.

FLAIR Strips have a gentle adhesive that is developed for the health and safety of the horse.

7. Take precautions during hot and humid conditions.

Before applying a FLAIR Strip, it may be helpful to prep the Strip application area with isopropyl alcohol. Isopropyl alcohol will help remove moisture from the hair to improve adhesion.⁠

8. Before applying, bend the tabbed edges to form a crease.

Forming a crease on the tabbed edges of the Strip help the tabs stick to the horse's nose more securely.

9. DO NOT touch the adhesive prior to applying the Strip.

Touching the adhesive will reduce the Strip’s ability to stick to your horse.

10. Apply FLAIR Strips two finger widths above the horse’s nostrils.

This placement provides optimal support for the soft tissue of the nasal passage.

11. DO NOT remove by pulling up or down.

Peel gently, but firmly from the top corner toward the middle. Adhesive may cause slight loss of hair, as experienced with normal shedding.

Flexineb E3 Portable Equine Nebulizer System

The Flexineb E3 System is a revolutionary equine nebulizer designed to deliver aerosolized medications and natural therapies effectively to a horse's airways. Launched in 2020, the Flexineb E3 controller is the latest advancement in this technology, offering a portable, silent, and highly efficient solution for horse owners seeking optimal respiratory health for their animals.

One of the standout features of the Flexineb E3 is its three user selectable modes, catering to the specific medication being administered. This customization provides flexibility and precision in treatment. The system's improved auto-tuning and dry med cup detection optimize performance, providing a seamless and effective nebulization process. The Flexineb E3 has an automatic shut-off after 35 minutes and a 6-hour battery life.

Respiratory problems in horses, including RAO, COPD, IAD, and EIPH, often lead to poor performance. The Flexineb E3 serves as an easy-to-use delivery device, producing a fine mist of aerosolized drugs or natural therapy solutions to address these conditions effectively.

The Flexineb E3 is compatible with various medications. It can administer antibiotics to treat airway infections, bronchodilators to open airways, corticosteroids for inflammation, and natural products for soothing and conditioning the airways. The device's flexibility allows horse owners to work closely with veterinarians to tailor treatments according to their specific needs. Click here for a Medication Guide for drug and administration info. Always consult with your veterinarian regarding diagnosis and treatment protocol for your horse.

What sets Flexineb apart from other equine nebulizers on the market is its portability, ease of use, and efficiency. The system is silent, ensuring a stress-free experience for the horse, and it does not waste medications. The short distance between the nebulizer and the horse's respiratory tract enhances the effectiveness of the treatment, and the device is well-tolerated by horses.

This comprehensive system includes essential components such as two 10 mL Grey Medication Cups, a 20 mL Extension Cup, Metered Dose Inhaler (MDI) Adaptor, Aerosol Holding Chamber, Inlet Valve Kit, Exit Valve Kit, Flexineb E3 Controller Kit, Battery, Battery Connector Cable, Flexineb 120 Volt Charger System, 16.9 Fluid Ounces .9% Saline Solution, Mask Strap, Blue Soft Shell Mask, User's Guide, and Carrying Case. The inside mask circumference of 20" ensures a comfortable and secure fit for the horse.

Warranty protection is outlined below:

Mask Assembly (excludes inlet and exit valves): 24 months

Medication Cup: The medication cup is a consumable part and its life is very dependent on the drugs nebulized and how well it is cleaned and maintained. Therefore, the medication cup component is not covered by warranty.

Controller: 24 months

Cable: 24 months

Battery: 6 months

Power Supply: 24 months

Please note: any damage caused by improper handling is not subject to warranty protection. The warranty expires when the device has been interfered with by a third party.

Replacement medication cups and other parts are available for purchase on our website here. Message or email us if you don't see the part you need.

Cleaning & Disinfecting:

Wash the mask in clean warm water and dishwashing liquid and rinse off with clean water. For a more thorough cleaning, dismantle the mask components and wash them individually. To clean the nebulizer, put a few drops of dishwashing liquid and clean warm water in the medication cup, close the cap and shake it. Gently squeeze the cap to push warm water through the mesh screen. Rinse out afterwards with clean warm water and shake dry. It is essential that the water is clean, otherwise it may clog the mesh. DO NOT USE WELL WATER.

The mask can be disinfected using the likes of Accel TB or Steri-7™ without having any adverse effect on the materials. We carry PREempt Disinfectant wipes for this use as well. 

The Flexineb E3 System is a cutting-edge solution for horse respiratory care, offering a user-friendly, efficient, and portable nebulizer that addresses a range of respiratory conditions. Whether used for medication administration or natural therapy, the Flexineb E3 proves to be an indispensable tool for maintaining the health and performance of equine athletes.

Safeguarding the respiratory health of our equine companions is paramount for their overall well-being and performance. The combination of cutting-edge products like OE Wind, Flair Strips, and the Flexineb E3 System offers a comprehensive approach to respiratory care, ensuring that horse owners have the tools they need for optimal management.

By incorporating these advanced products into a holistic respiratory care strategy, horse owners can proactively address potential issues, optimize performance, and enhance the overall quality of life for their equine companions. As with any aspect of equine health, consulting with veterinarians and adhering to recommended protocols is crucial, ensuring a tailored approach to each horse's unique needs.

As always, message or email us with any questions you have on the products we carry – we’re so happy to help!