Common Health Concerns for Horses After Surviving a Flood: What to Expect and How to Respond

The recent flooding in eastern Tennessee, western North Carolina, and surrounding areas has devastated many communities. Homes, businesses, and farms have been submerged in water, forcing thousands to evacuate and leaving them without essential supplies. With roads washed away and communication lines down, rescue efforts have been going around the clock to save lives and provide immediate relief to those affected.

Many horses who survived the storm will need ongoing care to recover fully. We are sharing this blog to help people understand the critical supplies required to support these horses in their recovery. From everyday items like clean water and hay to feed, tools, bedding, and medical supplies, we can all help in many ways. At the end of this blog, you'll find a list of trusted organizations and donation centers where you can contribute to the recovery efforts.

Understanding Post-Flood Health Risks in Horses

Floods can be devastating for both people and animals, and horses are no exception. While surviving the immediate flood danger is a relief, the aftermath presents serious health concerns that can arise days or weeks later. Understanding these risks and taking quick action can significantly affect your horse's recovery and long-term health.

Hoof and Skin Infections

Problem: After exposure to water, mud, and debris, horses are at high risk for hoof conditions like hoof abscesses, thrush, and mud fever (also known as pastern dermatitis). These infections thrive in wet, unsanitary environments, leading to inflammation, lameness, and discomfort. Additionally, rain scald (bacterial skin infection) can occur when horses' coats remain wet for prolonged periods.

Time Frame to Develop: Symptoms may develop within a few days to a week after the flood, particularly if the horse has been standing in mud or water.

Treatment: Treatment involves keeping the horse's environment as dry as possible. Affected hooves should be cleaned daily, and medicated treatments such as thrush ointment or hoof dressings may be necessary. For skin infections like mud fever, gently washing the affected area with an antiseptic solution followed by topical antibiotics may be required. Severe cases may necessitate systemic antibiotics prescribed by a veterinarian.

Supplies Needed:

• Hoof pick
• Thrush treatment ointments or sprays
• Antiseptic wash (e.g., chlorhexidine solution)
• Topical antibiotic creams
• Clean, dry bandages or wraps
• Non-abrasive towels or drying cloths

Respiratory Issues

Problem: Exposure to contaminated floodwaters, standing water, and moldy or dust-filled environments can lead to respiratory issues like pneumonia or bronchitis. Horses inhaling mold spores from damp hay or bedding are at particular risk.

Time Frame to Develop: Respiratory symptoms, such as coughing, nasal discharge, or labored breathing, may emerge within a week or two after the flood event.

Treatment: Respiratory issues should be addressed immediately by isolating the horse in a well-ventilated, dry area and consulting a veterinarian. Antibiotics may be necessary if bacterial pneumonia is present, and the treating veterinarian may prescribe bronchodilators or anti-inflammatories to assist with breathing.

Supplies Needed:

• Clean, dry bedding
• Clean, dust-free hay or alternative forage (e.g., haylage)
• Nasal aspirator (for mild cases)
• Access to a nebulizer (in cases requiring respiratory support)
• Stethoscope (for monitoring breathing, if available)

Gastrointestinal Problems

Problem: Sudden changes in diet or water quality, along with the stress of a flood, can result in colic or diarrhea. Horses may drink contaminated water or eat unfamiliar plants, leading to gastrointestinal upset or impaction colic. Flooding may also compromise hay and feed quality, increasing the risk of toxicity or mold exposure.

Time Frame to Develop: Gastrointestinal issues can present quickly within 24 to 48 hours after exposure to flood conditions or affected feeds.

Treatment: Treatment begins with rehydrating the horse, ensuring access to clean, fresh water, and providing high-quality feed. Diarrhea should also be addressed swiftly, as dehydration can occur rapidly.

Supplies Needed:

• Clean, uncontaminated water (preferably from a safe, bottled source if the well water is compromised)
• Electrolyte solutions for rehydration
• Fresh, high-quality hay

Leptospirosis and Waterborne Diseases

Problem: Floodwaters often carry bacteria such as Leptospira, which can lead to leptospirosis in horses. This bacterial infection can cause fever, uveitis (moon blindness), kidney issues, or even abortion in pregnant mares. Horses may also be at risk for other waterborne diseases like botulism or salmonellosis from contaminated feed or water.

Time Frame to Develop: Clinical signs of leptospirosis can emerge anywhere from a few days to several weeks post-exposure.

Treatment: Horses suspected of leptospirosis require immediate veterinary care, which may include antibiotics and supportive therapy to protect the kidneys and eyes.

Supplies Needed:

• Clean drinking water source (e.g., bottled water or filtered water)
• Antibiotics (as prescribed by a veterinarian)
• Fly masks or eye protectors (to shield from light sensitivity during uveitis episodes)
• Access to veterinary care for blood tests and possible vaccinations

Exhaustion and Muscle Strain

Problem: Horses that have been swimming or walking through deep water may suffer from muscle strain or exhaustion, which can lead to conditions like exertional rhabdomyolysis (tying-up). Prolonged exposure to floodwaters can also leave them hypothermic or weak.

Time Frame to Develop: Muscle strain and exhaustion are typically apparent within 24 to 48 hours. However, the full effects may take a few days to show, especially if the horse appears stiff or reluctant to move.

Treatment: Affected horses should be rested and provided with high-energy, easily digestible feed and electrolytes. Gentle hand-walking, once the horse is stable, can assist with recovery. Horses should also be kept warm and dry to prevent complications like hypothermia.

Supplies Needed:

• Electrolyte supplements
• High-quality hay and grains
• Warm blankets or cooling sheets (depending on the weather)
• Access to a veterinarian for muscle relaxants or anti-inflammatory drugs
• Clean, dry stall or shelter

Final Thoughts

Flood recovery is a long and often challenging process. Still, with diligent monitoring and prompt treatment, horses can overcome the health threats from floodwaters. Immediate action—such as providing clean water, safe shelter, and veterinary care—can make the difference between a smooth recovery and prolonged health problems.

Always consult your veterinarian for guidance and be aware of signs of infection, respiratory issues, colic, or other distress. With the proper care and attention, most horses can recover and return to good health following a flood.

Donation Centers and Organizations

This is a partial list; it is just a handful of the many groups in the area doing what they can to help. Each location has different needs and abilities to deliver supplies; we suggest you contact the organization you would like to donate to for a list of what they most need.

Western North Carolina Agriculture Center

474 Stock Drive
Canton, NC 28716
Westernnclivestock@gmail.com
(828) 646-3700

Avery County Warehouse

6880 Linville Falls Highway
Newland, NC 28657

Macon County Fairgrounds

1436 Georgia Road
Franklin, NC 28734
(828) 369-3523
themaconcofair.com

McDowell County Agriculture Center

188 Ag Services Drive
Marion, NC 28752
(828) 652-8104

Monetary donations can be made to:

Fleet of Angels
www.fleetofangels.org
PayPal email: Donations@FleetOfAngels.org