Wildfire Smoke & Protecting Your Dog

This summer, wildfires have taken over and are burning in many parts of Western North America. If you are in or near any of the areas affected by wildfires, you’ve probably heard some talk (or experienced first-hand) how inhaling the smoke can affect our health. But what about our pets?

Air quality is worse than ever before in many areas. The same precautions you take for yourself should be applied to your furry four-legged friends.

Watch for Signs of Respiratory Problems

These are some of the signs that your dog’s health is already being affected by the wildfire smoke:

• Difficulty breathing
• Cough
• Fever
• Discharge from nose
• Lethargy/fatigue

Treating Respiratory Problems in Dogs

Natural Symptom Relief With Herbs

The herbs in Lung Care help to soothe a spastic, barking cough related to smoke inhalation by relaxing and dilating the nasal passages and the lungs. They also work to help your pet’s lungs clear away debris that can accumulate when the wildfire smoke is thick. Mucilaginous herbs help to coat the lungs in a soothing gel to reduce inflammation and irritation. The herbs also work to thin excess mucus in the breathing passages to allow more oxygen into the lungs.

Talk to Your Vet

You should consult with your veterinarian if your dog is experiencing new or worsened symptoms of respiratory problems. Your vet might choose to use oxygen therapy if smoke inhalation has occurred. Some serious dangers of smoke inhalation in pets include thermal injury, carbon monoxide poisoning, hydrogen cyanide poisoning, and pneumonia.

Preventing Respiratory Problems in Dogs from Wildfire Smoke

• Depending on the severity of the smoke and the air quality:
  • Stay inside! (except for potty breaks, of course)
  • Take shorter walks/avoid strenuous outdoor activities
  • Take your dog outside early in the morning or later in the evening
• Make sure your dog has access to lots of water
• Give your dog a bath (the extra particles in the air can cause skin and throat irritation)

Keep your dog busy indoors instead by giving them a meaty bone to enjoy or work on some obedience training.