CLAY COUNTY, Fla. – Wildfire smoke isn’t just a concern for people — it can be just as harmful to pets, according to Dr. Christian Broadhurst with the Clay Humane Society.
He says owners of animals with existing respiratory sensitivities should be especially cautious during smoky conditions.
Dogs with short snouts — like Bulldogs and French Bulldogs — are particularly vulnerable.
Broadhurst says those breeds are already prone to breathing issues, and smoke can make things worse fast. Heavy panting after a walk or a tongue that turns from pink to blue are signs of serious trouble.
“Blue is definitely not good. It means you’re not oxygenating well, and it means that there’s something in our lungs affecting the ability to move oxygen,” he said.
His advice for respiratory-sensitive dogs is straightforward: skip the walk and stay inside. If symptoms do appear, Broadhurst says staying calm and cool matters — and getting to a vet quickly is essential.
Cat owners — especially those with outdoor cats — should consider bringing them inside, particularly older cats or those with a history of breathing problems.
“The less smoke, the less particulate matter they’re breathing in, the less likely we are to have an allergy flare-up,” Broadhurst said.
Birds may face the greatest danger of all. Broadhurst says they are the most respiratory-sensitive animals, already vulnerable to everyday household irritants like hairspray and paint fumes.
“You can only imagine what smoke would do to them as well, so keep the door shut, and bring them indoors,” he said.
When in doubt, Broadhurst’s message is simple: if the air is bad for people, assume it’s bad for pets, too — and act accordingly.
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