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Pets inhale the same air as humans. When you wear a mask and adopt safety measures against wildfire smoke, it's equally important to ensure your pets are protected from its harmful effects.
Identifying Signs of Smoke Irritation in Your Pet
Cats and dogs exhibit symptoms similar to humans when exposed to smoke. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, here are key indicators to watch for:
Persistent coughing, gagging, or labored breathing
Increased respiratory rate
Watery or inflamed eyes
Discharge from the nose
Lethargy, confusion, or loss of appetite
Birds are particularly vulnerable to smoke due to their highly efficient lungs, which excel at extracting oxygen from the air. This efficiency also makes them more susceptible to harmful or irritating airborne substances (remember the “canary in the coal mine,” which was a historical practice).
Ensure They Stay Inside
Since pets can’t use smoke-filtering masks, the most effective approach is to keep them indoors and maintain clean air. These measures mirror the precautions you’d take for yourself and your family:
Close all windows and doors securely.
Disable the fresh-air intake on your air conditioner and set it to recirculate indoor air.
Utilize an air purifier. If your purifier isn’t whole-house compatible, place it in the room where your pets spend the most time (or relocate your pets to the room with the purifier).
When outdoor trips are necessary, minimize your pet’s exposure to smoky air and schedule these outings during periods of reduced smoke intensity.
Outdoor pets may become restless indoors, so consider purchasing or crafting new toys to keep them engaged and entertained.
Prepare for Emergency Evacuation
In cases of severe smoke or nearby wildfires, evacuation may become necessary. Ensure your pets are included in your plans: secure appropriate carriers for birds, cats, and small animals, and identify pet-friendly shelters, hotels, or accommodations with friends or family.
For horses or livestock, proactively arrange access to trailers by contacting neighbors, local farmers, or haulers. The AMVA recommends making these arrangements well in advance to ensure readiness during emergencies.
