07/16/2026
Protecting Our Furry Friends During Ohio’s Air Quality Alert 🐾💨
With the current air quality alerts due to the Canadian wildfire smoke, it’s important to remember that if you can feel the effects of the haze, your pets likely can too! Our pets are just as susceptible to respiratory irritation from these fine smoke particles.
Here are some quick, essential tips to keep your companions safe and comfortable while air quality remains poor:
🏠 Keep It Indoors: Limit outdoor time as much as possible. For dogs, stick to brief, essential bathroom breaks only—no long walks or intense playtime until the air clears.
🪟 Seal the Indoors: Keep your windows and doors closed to prevent smoke from drifting inside. If you have an air purifier (especially with a HEPA filter) or air conditioning, now is the perfect time to run them.
💧 Stay Hydrated: Ensure your pets have constant access to fresh, clean water. Smoky, dry air can be drying to their respiratory membranes, and staying hydrated helps keep them comfortable.
👀 Watch for Warning Signs: Keep a close eye on your pets for any signs of respiratory distress, including:
Persistent coughing or gagging
Difficulty breathing (or heavy, noisy breathing)
Red, watery, or inflamed eyes
Nasal discharge
Unusual lethargy or weakness
Reduced appetite
⚠️ Extra Caution Needed: Please take extra care if you have brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, or Persians, as well as senior pets or those with pre-existing heart or lung conditions. Birds are also extremely sensitive and should be kept indoors throughout this event.
If you notice any of these symptoms in your pet, please reach out to your veterinarian right away!
Stay safe and keep those tails wagging (indoors)! 🐾❤️