07/16/2026
With the recent air quality advisories and smoky conditions, we wanted to share some important information about keeping our pets safe.
Just as smoke can irritate people, it can also cause health problems for animals. Smoke from wildfires and other large fires can affect pets, horses, livestock, and wildlife. If you can see or smell the smoke, or you're feeling its effects, your animals are likely being affected too.
Pets with heart or respiratory conditions are especially vulnerable during periods of poor air quality and should be monitored closely. Watch for the following signs of smoke or dust irritation:
Coughing or gagging
Difficulty breathing, including open-mouth breathing or noisy breathing
Eye irritation or excessive tearing
Inflammation of the mouth or throat
Nasal discharge
Asthma-like symptoms
Increased breathing rate
Fatigue or weakness
Disorientation or stumbling
Reduced appetite and/or thirst
If your pet is showing any of these signs, please contact your veterinarian promptly.
Tips to help protect your pets:
Keep pets indoors as much as possible and keep windows closed.
Birds are especially sensitive to poor air quality and should remain indoors when smoke or high levels of particulate matter are present.
Limit dogs' and cats' outdoor time to brief bathroom breaks when air quality alerts are in effect.
Avoid strenuous outdoor exercise during smoky conditions.
Resume normal outdoor activities once the smoke and dust have cleared and air quality has improved.
Stay safe, and don't forget that protecting your pets during poor air quality is just as important as protecting yourself.
Information adapted from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).
