Protect Your Pets From The Haze

Just as we get itchy noses and scratchy throats from the haze, our furkids too are at risk from its ill effects.
Claudia Chia 11 September 2020

When it comes to haze-related diseases, there are certain groups of dogs and cats that are particularly prone to falling ill: Old and very young animals, and those with short snouts (Pugs, Persian cats, and etc).

Additionally, as Mount Pleasant Animal Medical Centre posted on Facebook previously, pets with heart, lung, kidney, liver, and eye problems are also at greater risk of developing sicknesses.

The smoke from the haze can bring about respiratory difficulties, cough, asthma, and breathing complications. Other symptoms include: 

•    Nose and throat irritation

•    Increased mucus production

•    Cough

•    Eye irritation (redness and discharge)

•    Skin irritation (rashes and allergies)

•    Lung problems (bronchitis and asthma)

Should the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) reading go above 100, owners should avoid outdoor activities. If necessary, only walk Fido for a quick toilet break and avoid taking them down for walks completely if the reading goes beyond 200. 

After their walks, remember to wipe them down with some non-alcoholic baby wipes or pet-safe wipes so as to get rid of allergens and pollutants from their fur. This will also minimise the risks of skin allergies.

Owners should also try to switch on the air-conditioning or fan when possible, change water bowls frequently, and use doggy eyewash or eye drops to help flush out possible irritants and dust. 

*This article was updated on 11 Sept 2020. It first appeared in PetsMagazine.com.sg on 29 Aug 2016.