Bushfire smoke hazardous for pets too!
As the NSW Bushfire crisis continues, hazardous smoke has blanketed many areas of NSW and health authorities have urged those with respiratory or heart conditions to stay indoors with the windows closed, use reliever medication where necessary, avoid vigorous exercise and cover their nose and mouth with a mask.
While the smoke haze can have disastrous effects on us, it can also cause health problems for animals as well. Bushfire smoke can affect our pets, horses, livestock, and wildlife. If you can see or feel the effects of smoke yourself, you also should take precautions to keep your pets safe.
Animals with cardiovascular or respiratory disease are especially at risk from smoke and should be closely watched during all periods of poor air quality. Brachycephalic breeds such as bulldogs and pugs have obstructed airways which restrict their ability to breathe and should be monitored in cases of thick smoke and air pollution.
If your pet displays any of these symptoms, please contact your local vet clinic for advice or contact our vet team on 8777 4424.
Look for the following signs of possible smoke irritation:
- Difficulty breathing (increased breathing rate and effort)
- Eye irritation
- Fatigue or weakness
- Disorientation or stumbling
Tips to protect pets from smoke inhalation:
- Keep your pets indoors as much as possible, and keep your windows shut.
- Birds are particularly susceptible and should not be allowed outside when smoke is present.
- Avoid outdoor exercise during periods of poor air quality.
- Have an animal emergency plan and evacuation kit ready.