As summer blazes on, Calgary is experiencing fluctuating air quality levels due to smoke from nearby wildfires. Today, Calgary’s Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) stands at a high-risk level of 9, with forecasts predicting a very high risk in the coming days. Smoky air is not only potentially detrimental to our health but can also pose significant risks to our pets!
Understanding the Risks
Respiratory Issues: Just like humans, pets are susceptible to the adverse effects of inhaling smoky air. Smoke contains particulate matter that can move into the lungs, causing inflammation and worsening conditions like asthma or bronchitis. Pets may show clinical signs such as coughing, wheezing, and laboured breathing.
Eye Irritation: Smoky air pollutants can irritate pets’ eyes. You may observe increased scratching or pawing at their eyes, redness, and discomfort.
Heart Strain: Prolonged exposure to polluted air can strain your pet’s cardiovascular system, potentially leading to more severe health issues. This is particularly concerning for older pets or those with pre-existing heart conditions.
Steps to Protect Your Pets
- Keep a Close Eye: Pay attention to your pets for any signs of respiratory distress, such as coughing, sneezing, or difficulty breathing. If your pet has pre-existing health conditions, consult your veterinarian for additional precautions.
- Hydration: Ensure your pets can access plenty of fresh water. Staying hydrated can help mitigate some of the effects of poor air quality.
- Preparation is Key: Regularly check local air quality reports and plan your pets’ outdoor activities on days with better air quality.
- Create a Safe Indoor Environment: Use air purifiers to help reduce indoor pollution levels. Ensure that your home is well-ventilated. Avoid opening windows and doors when air quality is poor.
- Outdoor Cats: Cats that usually roam outdoors should also be kept inside during poor air quality days. Cats with asthma, overweight, or heart issues are at higher risk. Monitor their behaviour and breathing. Play with them indoors to keep them entertained.
- Limit Outdoor Time: On days when the AQHI is high, keep your pets inside as much as possible to ensure their safety. We all know what happens then—they get curious, and a curious pet can be a handful! Shorten dog walks and engage them in indoor activities to keep them active without exposing them to harmful air.
Why Petfinity is the Perfect Solution
Visit Petfinity’s Indoor Park! imagine your dog splashing in a pool, chasing bubbles and playing in an environment that mimics the outdoors without the associated risks. If you have any health issues, it may be safer for you to come to Petfinity, too! This way, you and your pets can remain active without the risks of poor air quality.
Why take unnecessary risks when you have a safe, fun, and engaging alternative? Join us at Petfinity, where we prioritize the health and happiness of pets and their families.
For the latest updates on air quality, you can visit Environment Canada’s AQHI page and IQAir’s real-time air quality map.
Author: Dr. Shelby Kimura
