How to Keep Your Pet Safe from Poor Air Quality During Wildfires
When wildfires strike, they don't just impact humans; our furry friends are also at risk. If you’re in an area affected by wildfire smoke, it’s crucial to prioritize your pet’s health and safety. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to navigate changing air quality with your pet during events like the LA fires. (This guide is primarily oriented toward dog parents as dogs require time outdoors, cat parents - we suggest following the indoor guidelines).
Limit Outdoor Exposure
If you can see, smell, or taste smoke in the air, limit your dog’s outdoor activities as much as possible. Dogs, like humans, can experience respiratory distress from inhaling smoke, and they don’t have the option to wear a mask. Only let your dog outside for necessary bathroom breaks or very short walks.
After being outside:
- Wipe their paws: Use baby wipes or a damp cloth to remove particulate matter and toxins that could be tracked indoors.
- Check their coat: If your dog rolls on the ground, consider giving them a quick bath to remove any ash or residue.
Create a Clean Room
According to the Coalition for Clean Air, it’s best to treat your pet like an infant during hazardous air conditions. Set up a clean room in your house to protect them from harmful toxins.
Steps to Set Up a Clean Room:
- Use an air purifier: Choose one that can properly handle the size of the room you’ll be using. Look for purifiers with HEPA filters and ensure they are rated MERV 13 or higher. Consider a purifier with a carbon filter as well as carbon filters capture gases and odors, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful chemicals released by wildfires.
- Limit outside contaminants: Avoid bringing in outside clothes, shoes, or items that may carry smoke or particulates.
- Seal the space: Keep windows and doors closed to prevent polluted air from entering the room.
- Comfortable essentials: Add your dog’s favorite bed, toys, and water to keep them calm and comfortable.
Monitor Air Quality and Wind Direction
Uncertainty about air safety can make it difficult to decide whether your dog can go for a longer walk or a hike. Here are tips to stay informed:
- Check air quality: Use apps like AirNow or websites like IQAir to monitor real-time air quality in your area. Look for an AQI (Air Quality Index) below 100 for moderate safety.
- Track wind direction: Pay attention to where the wind is coming from and evaluate if the wind is coming from a direction where there is no fire.
Be Aware of Symptoms of Smoke Inhalation in Dogs
Even with precautions, it’s important to watch for signs that your dog may be struggling with the poor air quality. Symptoms can include:
- Coughing or wheezing
- Difficulty breathing
- Fatigue or lethargy
- Red or watery eyes
- Nasal discharge
If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your veterinarian immediately.
Additional Indoor Activities for Mental Stimulation
When outdoor time is limited, keep your dog entertained with indoor activities:
- Interactive toys: Puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing toys can engage their minds. We recommend putting one of our meatballs in a Kong or you can remove the core of an apple and put peanut butter in there.
- Training sessions: Teach them new tricks or practice commands.
- Play games: Games like tug-of-war or hide-and-seek can help burn off some energy indoors.
In conclusion
We are not air quality experts or veterinarians. These suggestions are based on general guidelines to help protect your pet’s lung health. Always consult a professional for personalized advice for your pet during wildfire events. The pets most at risk to poor air quality will be senior dogs and cats, as well as puppies and kittens.
By taking these steps, you can help mitigate harm to your pet's lungs during challenging air quality conditions and/or wildfire events.
Check out our infographic here: https://www.instagram.com/p/DFJCV2qymzv/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Sources:
Coalition for Clean Air: The Fires: Air Quality, Public Health & What to Do Next