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Dr. Gabrielle Fadl of Bond Vet Clinic in New York City reported that her clinic experienced a surge of calls from worried pet owners inquiring about how to shield their animals from the deteriorating air quality outside. In addition, the clinic fielded requests for rescheduling appointments from patients, specifically pregnant and elderly individuals.
Fadl underlined that inhaling polluted air could significantly affect pets' health, leading to a host of issues like respiratory problems, allergies, and worsening underlying conditions, such as asthma.
To ensure pets' well-being, Fadl recommended taking the following steps.
Minimize outdoor excursions
Reduce your pet's time spent outdoors as much as feasible, particularly if the air quality is hazardous. This can help them avoid exposure to dangerous pollutants and allergens.
Dr. Peter DeCarlo, an associate professor of environmental health and engineering at Johns Hopkins University, also suggested limiting your dog's exercise outdoors. Instead of running, try walking more slowly so that you're not inhaling deeply.
Animals can also suffer from respiratory issues, asthma-like symptoms, and bronchitis when engaging in strenuous activities due to their inability to breathe as intensely as humans. Dr. Jessica Bell, an assistant professor at Washington State University's college of veterinary medicine, recommended taking pets outside only when the air quality is favorable. This could be before the dew sets in the morning.
New York City's Emergency Management advises pet owners to wipe their pets' muzzles, feet, and coats with a moist towel after spending time outside.
Establish an indoor sanctuary with good ventilation
Even indoor pets can be vulnerable to poor air quality outdoors, Bell cautioned. It's crucial to maintain proper ventilation in your home. Keep the windows closed to bar outdoor pollutants, including fine particulate matter. Breathing these small yet harmful particles has been linked to various health issues, including heart disease, asthma, and respiratory illnesses.
Bell also advised using air purifiers or filters to improve indoor air quality.
When keeping pets indoors, offering them mental stimulation is crucial. Bell suggested using puzzle games that entice pets to find treats or food hidden in the house. These challenges will keep them engaged and entertained.
Ensure your pets have access to clean water, both indoors and outdoors, as water tainted by smoke can be harmful.
Observe your pets for symptoms
Be vigilant for any signs of discomfort or respiratory stress in your animals, such as coughing, sneezing, wheezing, or breathing difficulties.
Don't overlook any changes in their typical behavior, like a sudden decline in activity. Bell stressed the importance of monitoring pets' actions and not presenting them with difficult tasks when their bodies signal they're not up to it.
Indoor cats should also be inspected for respiratory problems and discomfort.
Collaborate with your veterinarian
Reach out to your trusted veterinarian for personalized advice concerning your pet's requirements. Vets can advise on preventive measures and treatments.
This report was initially published in June 2023, with contributions from CNN's Amaya McDonald and Jen Christensen. It has since been revised.
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Pets' wellness can be impacted by inhaling polluted air, leading to various health issues such as respiratory problems, allergies, and worsening underlying conditions like asthma. To protect pets' well-being, consider establishing an indoor sanctuary with good ventilation, using air purifiers or filters, and minimizing outdoor excursions when the air quality is poor.
Source: edition.cnn.com
