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When wildfires affect an area, both people and pets are at risk of being displaced and exposed to harmful smoke. Remember — if you feel the effects of smoke, your pets likely do, too.
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Keeping your pet safe means limiting exposure to poor air quality and being ready to leave quickly if conditions worsen. If you ever need to evacuate, your dog should always go with you.
How to Keep Your Dog Safe During Smoky Conditions
Wildfire smoke can make the air hazardous to breathe. Some experts estimate that the effects of breathing in smoke-filled air for a full day may be similar to smoking about seven cigarettes for a person. Puppies and senior dogs may be especially vulnerable.
To reduce risk, limit your dog’s exposure as much as possible, and keep them indoors with windows closed during poor air quality. When bathroom breaks are necessary, take your dog outside only briefly and avoid outdoor play or long walks.
Offering indoor enrichment activities are a great way to help keep your dog mentally and physically engaged while staying safe.
Signs Your Dog May Be Affected by Smoke
Smoke inhalation can cause noticeable symptoms that require attention. If your dog shows any of the following signs, contact your veterinarian promptly:
- Coughing
- Trouble breathing
- Wheezing or loud breathing
- Fatigue or disorientation
- Reduced appetite
- Reduced thirst
- Red eyes, excessive tearing or blinking, or pawing at the eyes, which could indicate cornea trauma
Do Face Masks Protect Dogs From Smoke?
While people commonly use face masks as a way to reduce exposure to airborne particles, they aren’t a reliable solution for dogs in smokey conditions. There is no evidence that masks protect against harmful gases such as carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, or cyanide, which are present in wildfire smoke.
In addition, there hasn’t been enough research to confirm whether masks are effective for pets. Keeping your dog indoors as much as possible remains the safest and most effective approach.
How to Prepare Your Dog for a Possible Evacuation
Because evacuations can happen with little warning, it’s important to have an evacuation plan ready before you even think you may need it.
Start by ensuring your dog is microchipped and that your contact information is current. Since they can easily be scanned by veterinarians or shelter employees, microchips can go a long way in helping you reunite with your pet if you get separated. Your dog should also be wearing a collar with up-to-date identification tags.
It’s equally important to keep copies of essential records, including:
- Vaccination certificates and most recent heartworm test results
- Information about any health concerns, medications, or behavior problems
- Contact information for your veterinarian
- Identification information, including proof of ownership and a current photo of you with your dog (in case your dog gets lost)
What to Pack in a Dog Emergency Kit
Having a ready-to-go pet emergency kit can make an emergency evacuation smoother and less stressful. You’ll want to have certain items on hand to support your dog’s basic needs, safety, and any medical issues.
Store supplies in a waterproof, easy-to-carry container that you can access quickly. Your dog’s go-bag should include items such as:
- Bottled drinking water
- Food in waterproof containers or cans (enough for at least two weeks). Consider choosing dog food in pop-top tins or pack a can opener.
- Food and water bowls
- Prescription medications and health supplies, including flea, tick and heartworm preventatives
- A dog first-aid kit
- Poop bags and other clean-up supplies
- Familiar comfort items like toys, bedding, and blankets
- Stress-relieving items like an anxiety vest or calming sprays, if needed
How to Evacuate Safely With Your Dog
If evacuation becomes necessary, bring your dog with you without exception. Gather your pet’s emergency kit and documents, and head to a safe, pet-friendly place to stay. Options may include staying with family or friends, relocating to an emergency shelter, or booking a stay at a pet-friendly hotel.
In the unfortunate event that you’re separated from your pet or lose your pet, contact the recovery service your pet’s microchip is registered with. AKC Reunite. During wildfire events, remain alert, and minimize smoke exposure when possible. Be sure to consult your veterinarian if you notice any changes in your dog’s health or behavior.
Key Takeaways
- Wildfire smoke can affect dogs just as it affects people, especially puppies, senior dogs, and dogs with underlying health conditions.
- During poor air quality events, keep dogs indoors and limit outdoor activity to brief bathroom breaks.
- Watch for symptoms such as coughing, breathing difficulties, fatigue, reduced appetite, and eye irritation.
- Prepare for emergencies by keeping identification, medical records, and evacuation plans up to date.
- Maintain a fully stocked pet emergency kit and always evacuate with your dog if evacuation becomes necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How dangerous is wildfire smoke for dogs?
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Wildfire smoke can irritate a dog’s lungs, airways, and eyes. Puppies, senior dogs, and dogs with existing respiratory or heart conditions may face a higher risk of complications.
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Should I walk my dog when air quality is poor?
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It’s generally best to avoid walks and vigorous outdoor activity during periods of poor air quality. Limit outdoor time to brief bathroom breaks until conditions improve.
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What symptoms suggest smoke inhalation in dogs?
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Signs may include coughing, wheezing, noisy breathing, fatigue, eye irritation, decreased appetite, or difficulty breathing. Contact your veterinarian if you notice these symptoms.
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Should dogs wear masks during wildfires?
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There is currently insufficient evidence that masks effectively protect dogs from wildfire smoke, particularly harmful gases. Limiting exposure indoors remains the preferred strategy.
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What should be included in a dog evacuation kit?
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A dog emergency kit should contain food, water, medications, identification information, medical records, a first-aid kit, waste bags, bedding, and comfort items that help reduce stress during evacuation.
This article is intended solely as general guidance, and does not constitute health or other professional advice. Individual situations and applicable laws vary by jurisdiction, and you are encouraged to obtain appropriate advice from qualified professionals in the applicable jurisdictions. We make no representations or warranties concerning any course of action taken by any person following or otherwise using the information offered or provided in this article, including any such information associated with and provided in connection with third-party products, and we will not be liable for any direct, indirect, consequential, special, exemplary or other damages that may result, including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness or death.