Bed-Down produce premium dust-extracted horse bedding. Our products are available online and at good tack shops and animal supplies retailers across the UK.
When we think about hazards in the stable, we often consider things like slippery floors, loose fencing, or poor lighting. But there’s a far more insidious threat that’s easy to overlook: dust. While it may seem fairly harmless, dust in the stable can pose serious health risks to horses.
Dust is more than just a nuisance; it’s a trigger for respiratory issues. Horses have highly sensitive respiratory systems, and exposure to airborne dust particles can lead to conditions such as equine asthma (formerly known as recurrent airway obstruction or heaves), coughing, nasal discharge, and decreased performance. Even a low level of persistent exposure can cause long-term damage.
Much of the dust comes from traditional horse bedding materials like straw or low-grade shavings, which can break down and release fine particles into the air. These particles are easily inhaled, especially when horses are resting with their noses close to the ground. During mucking out or feeding, the dust becomes even more disturbed, increasing exposure levels for stable workers as well as the horses.
It’s not just respiratory health at stake. Dust can also irritate horses’ eyes and skin, causing discomfort and increasing the risk of infection. In more extreme cases, high dust environments can compromise a horse’s immune system, making them more vulnerable to other illnesses.
Thankfully, this danger is preventable. Choosing a high-quality, low-dust bedding is one of the most effective ways to protect your horse’s health. At Bed-Down, for example, we specialise in premium dust-extracted horse bedding solutions designed with your horse’s wellbeing in mind. Our products undergo rigorous dust-removal processes and are sourced from clean, natural materials to provide maximum comfort and safety.
Minimising dust in your stable isn’t just about cleanliness; it’s a vital part of responsible horse care. By understanding and addressing the hidden dangers of dust, you’re creating a healthier, happier environment for your horses and indeed for everyone who works around them.
Invest in their health. Choose bedding that breathes easy, because every breath matters.
For more information, contact us today on 01986 785278 or at info@bed-down.co.uk.
