ROCHESTER, N.Y. — News10NBC is continuing to track air quality concerns on Friday due to smoke from wildfires burning in Canada and Minnesota. You can see the latest air quality index here.
So, how can you protect your pets from the wildfire smoke? A viewer named Duane wrote to us asking: “Should pets be okay in the smoke, or limit their outside time, too?”
We spoke with Kris Repich, a veterinary tech from Lollypop Farm, about how to keep animals safe in the smoky air. Pets are affected by wildfire smoke in ways similar to humans.
“It can cause irritated eyes, respiratory airways. You can see some coughing and maybe some wheezing and kind of redness in the eyes,” Repich said.
Just like humans, very young and very old animals and pets with existing conditions are more at risk. Dog owners should take their animals out for short, 10 to 15-minute potty breaks, but avoid extended outdoor play and long walks.
“Take them out for short potty breaks. You don’t have to lock them in the house for a couple of days, but short potty breaks, no crazy playing,” Repich said.
Certain dog breeds like pugs and French bulldogs already have a hard time breathing because of their flat faces, so owners should keep a close eye on them. Birds face even greater risks due to their unique respiratory systems.
“Birds are super efficient at oxygen exchange. Their lungs are extra special. But because of that, they’re very at-risk for any particulate matter in the air,” Repich said. “It is really important if you have a pet bird at home that they stay inside during this time, and if you have access to an air purifier or an air filter, to have one of those in the room where your bird lives.”
A quick way to tell if your dog is struggling with oxygen is to check the color of their gums. They should be pink. If they look purple or blue, call your vet.
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MORE OF OUR COVERAGE:
Air quality hits purple ‘very unhealthy’ range: How to protect your home from smoke particles How Seneca Park Zoo staff are keeping animals safe from air quality concerns Friday’s coverage: Region is ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’, state lawmakers push for new policy Thursday’s coverage: Monroe County closes its parks and more, make your own air filter Wednesday’s coverage: Air quality advisory begins, find out who’s most at riskGood Question: How does wildfire smoke impact pets? WHEC.com.
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