The Dreaded Mold at the Barn

Mold is never fun to deal with. Breathing in mold has harmful effects for both equestrian and equine. There are ways to clean the mold. White mold, known as mildew, is the early stages of mold. Black mold is known as toxic mold. Mold can be found everywhere and grows prominently on any substance when moisture is present, but there are two different main molds, white and black.

Mold produces spores that can get everywhere inside and outside reproducing continuously. It can get into the lungs and create more issues for both equine and humans. The spores tend to locate damp spots and grow. The spores can take hold in poorly ventilated areas with high humidity in less than 24 hours. Mold also can grow inside the sinuses, ear canals, and lungs creating a fungus when it starts getting inhaled, this is when health issues start to appear.

Being exposed to mold can create various side effects depending on the individual (equestrian or equine). Some of the health issues are throat irritation, nasal congestion, eye irritation, cough, and skin irritations. It can pose even higher health risks than just side effects. For humans, a way to detox from the black mold with cholestyramine and activated charcoal. It absorbs mycotoxins from your body and removes them. By getting out of the environment, it will rebuild the immune system. Also, remove the equine from the mold and begin cleaning. They equine may cough and have nasal discharge, there are worse side effects depending on the equine.

A way to test if it's mold and mildew is by dabbing a few drops of bleach on the black area. If it lightens after one to two minutes then it is a telltale sign, but if it stays dark then most likely it could be dirt.

There are different ways to kill mold. One way is distilled vinegar, put it into a labeled spray bottle without water, spray it onto the area and let it sit for at least an hour. Afterwards, wipe it off with water and allow it to completely dry. When cleaning it, it is recommended to were a facemask to cover your nose and mouth to prevent inhaling the mold spores.

Having inadequate ventilation, stall fronts, improper cleaning procedures, and additional issues can open up to mold growth. With the equine being exposed to black mold they developed immune issues matters that could lead to bleeding and infection. In severe cases, it can lead to death for some. One example is when equine has gastrointestinal issues due to mold growing in hay that is fed. It can also cause symptoms like allergic reactions such as hives. Create a safe place for equestrians and equine animals by reducing mold and preventing it from growing.

It is never fun going through the mold experience, especially when it is inhaled every day while cleaning stalls. Remember if you don't want to be in the mold, neither does your equine animal. Thank you for joining the Equidae Family and stay healthy!