Wildfire smoke poses health risk to pets

The smoke-filled skies in recent days due to wildfires poses a risk to our health, and not just for humans. Our four-legged friends are just as susceptible.

Hot weather topped with poor air quality from wildfire smoke has dog owners finding innovative ways to exercise their pups. “We haven’t been able to go for our normal and long walks,” says Marci, who is a dog owner. “We have to do quick 10 minute walks, otherwise we can tell right away her eyes get red, and her breathing gets different, so indoors we have to do more puzzles and training to keep her stimulated.”

“We’ve had to take them to daycare more than usual, which is obviously an added cost. But they have an indoor play area, which is the only way to exercise them,” adds Kristin Peters, another dog owner.

Dr. Tracy Ho, a Veterinarian at Brintnell Veterinary Hospital says strenuous outdoor exercise isn’t recommended for animals on smoky days, just as it isn’t for people.

“Be careful, I think if it’s a short walk to be out there, that is fine, but definitely just like with people, I recommend keeping them indoors. Mental stimulation and working their mind can be equally as effective,” she explains.

“Just as important as physical activity is, mental stimulation and mental activity is just as important. So getting them busy with toys with food inside them, or playing with them, and doing indoor activities is equally as effective as physical activity.

“Similar to people, it can definitely impact respiratory issues and diseases in animals. Some pre-existing, some not pre-existing. So especially things like allergies, asthma, bronchitis, those conditions affect animals and can be exacerbated by the smoke in the area.”

Some animals are more susceptible to the wildfire smoke than others. “Breeds that are considered brachycephalic, so those that are flat-faced, they already have some limitations on breathing already to start with, so they can be more affected. And those animals with pre-existing conditions, or older animals that are more likely to have asthma or bronchitis would definitely be more affected.”

Heaving breathing or panting, coughing and less energy are just a few signs your dog might be affected by the smoke. “Dogs and cats are very sensitive to smell, so it definitely can cause them to have asthma flare ups and allergy flare ups,” says Dr. Ho.

Both dog owners Kristin and Marci agree it’s important to not only think about your own health when the air quality is poor, but to watch our for your four-legged friends as well.

“Because they can’t speak to us verbally, we have to pay more attention to physical signs of distress, and if we don’t it could be too late,” says Kristin Peters.

“She’s my dog, I have to watch for these signs, not just on myself, but of course for her too,” adds Marci.