As the smoke from wildfires in Canada spreads southward, many parts of the United States are experiencing some of the worst air quality on record. Health experts are cautioning people across the Northeast and Midwest to stay indoors to reduce the risk of developing respiratory issues and other complications from air pollution. However, it’s vital to note that pets, just like humans, can also be affected by the smoke from wildfires.
According to Dr. Dana Varble, chief veterinary officer at the North American Veterinary Community, birds are particularly susceptible to health complications from poor air quality because of their large lungs and air sacs, which make them sensitive to chemicals and other contaminants in the air such as smoke. The same goes for short-nosed breeds like pugs, Pekingese, French bulldogs, and Persian cats, who are at higher risk due to shortened nasal passages that might otherwise filter out particulate matter. Additionally, pets with underlying heart or respiratory diseases are at a higher risk of complications arising from breathing smoky air.
It’s essential to be extra mindful if your pet has a cardiovascular or lung condition, is very young or old, or spends a lot of time outdoors. Poor air quality can cause respiratory problems, eye irritation, and other health issues in pets, so it’s crucial to look out for signs such as coughing or wheezing, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, sneezing or a runny nose, eye irritation or discharge, lethargy or decreased activity, loss of appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea.
To protect your pets during periods of poor air quality, the recommendations are very similar to those for people. Keep your pets indoors as much as possible, with doors and windows closed. Limit the length and intensity of your dog’s walks, and avoid exercising your pets in poor air quality. Pet birds should be brought indoors while the air quality remains poor. Provide good ventilation, invest in a high-quality air purifier, and vacuum frequently to minimize exposure to pollutants.
If you notice any concerning symptoms in your pet, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian or local emergency veterinary hospital. Also, stay up to date with any air pollution-related news in your area, whether from wildfire smoke or industrial emissions, and have a pet preparedness kit ready at all times if you need to evacuate with your pet in times of emergency.
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