Every Breath Counts: Understanding the Equine Respiratory System

Understanding and protecting your horse’s respiratory health is key to their comfort, performance, and long-term well-being. In this episode of Ask an Expert, equine respiratory specialist Dr. Laurent Couëtil breaks down the most common issues affecting horses’ lungs and airways. You’ll learn how to identify early signs of asthma, what makes environments either harmful or protective, and which practical steps can make a major difference. Episode Highlights: 06:16: What equine asthma is, why it’s often missed, and key environmental triggers every horse owner should know 11:38: If asthma is genetic, environmental, or both and what current research tells us about risk factors 28:53: What actually causes inflammation in the horse’s airway, why invisible dust matters most, and how hay feeding practices can dramatically reduce risk 45:13: Traveling with hay, head position during hauling, and best-practice strategies to prevent both asthma flares and respiratory infections 50:11: How to recognize subtle signs of asthma, when to call the vet, and what treatments protect your horse without compromising performance Meet the Expert, Dr. Laurent Couëtil Dr. Couëtil is a professor of large animal medicine at Purdue University, where he directs the Equine Sports Medicine Center and is involved in equine research initiatives. With a veterinary degree from France, a residency at Tufts, and a PhD in respiratory physiology, his work has significantly advanced the understanding and management of respiratory health in sport horses. Episode Sponsor Connaway & Associates The friendly and knowledgeable team at Connaway & Associates brings together more than 30 years of experience to offer a wide range of insurance services, including horse insurance, farm insurance, and liability insurance. Visit www.connaway.net or call 501-868-8084 to explore your options.  Brought to you by Ride iQ  This episode is part of the Ask An Expert podcast series, usually available exclusively in the Ride iQ app, where members have access to more than 200 expert interviews covering training, horse care, sports psychology, and more. Ride iQ helps everyday riders ride with more clarity, confidence, and purpose through on-demand audio lessons from world-class coaches. Members also get weekly live Q&As with equestrian experts, exclusive podcast episodes, dressage test playbooks, and supportive community conversations that make learning feel fun and doable. If you’d like to explore what Ride iQ offers, you can learn more and start your free 14-day trial at Ride-iQ.com.  Want straightforward, expert advice on keeping your horse sound and thriving? Dr. Erica Lacher’s eight-part program, Horse Health Essentials, is now available, and you can use code POD35 for 35% off. Learn more at RideIQElevate.com/horse-health.