With all this smoke in our area, people are not the only ones who can be at risk -- our furry friends may have a ruff time outdoors as well.
The air quality on Wednesday was in the 'unhealthy' range and as bad as it is for us, it could be even worse for our pets. This is especially true when it's as hot as it’s been out during the day.
"The only way for them to cool themselves off is by panting and the more they pant the more smoke they inhale," said Dr. Christina Hansen, Lead Veterinarian at the SPCA of Northern Nevada.
For flat-faced breeds like pugs and bulldogs, it could be even worse, as they tend to have a harder time breathing in general. If at all possible, experts recommend to cut the time you usually take your pup outside by a third.
“If it is unhealthy for you, it is probably unhealthy for your pet and if you would limit your outdoor activities, then you should be limiting your pets' outdoor activities as well," said Dr. Hansen.
That's just for dogs. As for cats, their risk is even higher. “It's more of a problem with cats, you know try to keep your cats inside, especially if they have asthma."
For birds such as parakeets and parrots, it can be even worse, as their lungs perform differently. “They don't process pollutants as well as our dogs or cats or we do, so birds would be particularly susceptible to smoke."
If you believe your pup may have smoke inhalation or they were outside for too long, there are things you can look out for. “You are going to see coughing, that would be the main thing. You may see red eyes or discharge from the eyes."
Dr. Hansen goes on to say that if your pet is healthy, they should be able to recover from these symptoms, but if they persist to visit a vet as soon as possible.
