It’s hard to miss the wildfire smoke drifting through Milwaukee, worsening air quality for humans and animals alike.
An air quality alert was in effect for all of Wisconsin on Thursday, July 16, and conditions aren’t expected to improve anytime soon.
So, what are the best ways to keep your pets safe from the smoke-filled air? Here’s what an expert had to say about it.
Can dogs go outside in smoky conditions?
Jen Quammen, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association, said limiting your pet’s time spent outside is important, as is keeping your windows closed and air-conditioning on inside.
While dogs will still need short walks to relieve themselves, longer walks or trips to the dog park should be avoided in these conditions, Quammen said. Any high-intensity exercise, like a game of fetch, can cause dogs to breathe in more harmful smoke.
Any short-nose breeds or pets with pre-existing conditions such as heart or lung disease are especially vulnerable, she said.
Quammen said indoor activities can be a good replacement for now, whether that’s chasing a laser pointer or playing with a puzzle toy.
Should I take my pet to the vet for smoke-related health problems?
Owners know their pets best, so use your judgment to decide when it’s time to contact a veterinarian, Quammen said.
These are the symptoms to watch for and, if they appear, it’s time to get your pet inside and seek care.
“Those are things that could happen quickly,” Quammen said. “Our pets don’t have a way to just directly tell us, ‘I’m having a little bit harder time breathing’ or ‘I’m having a little bit of discomfort in my eye.'”
What about livestock?
Horses, cows and chickens can’t exactly be brought inside your home, but Quammen said they should be kept indoors as much as possible. Livestock should also have limited exercise.
It’s also important to keep their spaces clean of dust and provide plenty of fresh water, she said.
Have an evacuation plan
Quammen said pet owners should think about evacuation plans.
Milwaukee isn’t anywhere close to an active wildfire, but Quammen said pets might need to get out of these conditions. Pet owners should be prepared to leave with medications and find pet-friendly lodging if the situation demands it.
When can I resume normal activities with my pet?
When conditions are safe for humans, they are also safe for pets, Quammen said. Monitor the air quality forecast to see when conditions improve.
This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin wildfire smoke puts pets at risk. What a vet says to do
Reporting by Blaise Mesa, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Blaise Mesa, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel | USA TODAY Network
