As wildfires become more frequent and intense across British Columbia and other parts of Canada, the smoky skies they leave behind pose serious health risks—not only for people but for our pets as well. National Pet Fire Safety Day (July 15) is a timely reminder to consider how environmental hazards, including wildfire smoke, affect animals and to take action to protect them.
At Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital, we see first-hand how smoke exposure can lead to serious respiratory issues in pets—particularly those with underlying heart or lung disease. If you can smell or feel the effects of smoke yourself, your pet is also feeling it. Here’s what you need to know to keep your four-legged family members safe during wildfire season.
Recognizing Smoke Inhalation in Pets
Some pets are more sensitive to air pollution than others. Animals with cardiovascular or respiratory conditions are especially at risk, but even healthy pets may experience symptoms from prolonged or intense exposure.
Common signs of smoke or dust irritation in pets:
- Coughing or gagging
- Laboured breathing, open-mouth breathing, or noisy respiration
- Eye irritation and watering
- Throat or mouth inflammation
- Nasal discharge
- Asthma-like symptoms (especially in cats)
- Elevated breathing rate
- Lethargy or weakness
- Disorientation or stumbling
- Behaviour changes like reduced appetite or thirst
If your pet displays any of these signs, please consult your veterinarian right away. Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital is open 24/7, walk-ins welcome, and we are VECCS Level 1 certified, with advanced life-support equipment including mechanical ventilation and high-flow oxygen to manage even the most critical respiratory emergencies.
Tips to Protect Pets from Wildfire Smoke
Following these precautions can reduce your pet’s risk of smoke-related health problems:
- Keep pets indoors as much as possible and close all windows and doors.
- Avoid outdoor activity during poor air quality alerts. Let dogs out only briefly for bathroom breaks.
- Limit outdoor time based on the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI). At an index level of 10+, vets recommend no more than 5–10 minutes outside, even for active dogs.
- Skip intense exercise. Wait until smoke has cleared before resuming hikes or runs with your pet.
- Never use pet masks. They can make breathing more difficult and are not recommended.
- Use HEPA filters indoors to reduce indoor particulate matter.
- Ensure good ventilation in animal shelters, pens, or coops. Aim for an air change every 15 minutes.
- Keep pets hydrated—smoky, dry air can irritate respiratory membranes and lead to dehydration.
- Don’t let birds outside during smoky conditions. Their respiratory systems are especially fragile.
Be Ready to Evacuate
Wildfires can spread quickly, so make sure your pet evacuation kit is stocked and your disaster plan includes all your animals. Need help building a plan? Visit our blog on pet emergency preparedness for a checklist.
We’re Here if You Need Us
We hope you and your pets stay safe and smoke-free this summer. But if your pet is showing signs of respiratory distress, don’t wait.
Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital is open 24/7—emergency walk-ins welcome. We are VECCS Level 1 certified and capable of handling even the most critical emergencies and trauma, with specialists on staff and on call to handle even the most life-threatening situations.