Summer Safety for Pets: Wildfire Smoke

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​Keep your pets safe during wildfire smoke.

​The smoke in the air is irritating to everyone. For family members with smaller lung capacities, the effects of rampant wildfires throughout the province can be especially problematic.

The rule of thumb is that if you can smell or are otherwise affected by the smoke, your companion animals will be at least as affected by it.

Animals with known respiratory or cardiovascular issues are obviously most at risk. Birds are extremely vulnerable to smoke and airborne particulates.

Here are some of the signs to beware of:

• The animal is coughing or gagging
• They appear to be having difficulty breathing; are breathing through an open mouth; have an increased rate of breathing; or are making unusual noise while breathing
• Their eyes are irritated and/or watery
• There is discharge from the nose
• They demonstrate weakness, tiredness, reduced appetite or thirst
• They seem disoriented

Here are some precautions and things to consider:

• Keep pets inside as much as possible, letting them out for short relief breaks as necessary
• Avoid exercising pets, particularly when smoke is visible
• Keep windows shut

If you are concerned about your animal’s reaction to the smoke, call the RAPS Animal Hospital at 604-242-1666.