How To Protect Your Fur Kids From The Haze
With the haze making an unwelcome comeback this year, more pets are turning up at veterinary clinics with haze-elated symptoms such as respiratory problems and breathing difficulties. Contrary to what most owners might think, our fur kids too suffer from the ill effects of the haze in Singapore.
Senior animals and puppies are particularly susceptible to the health effects of haze due to their weaker immune systems, and should be kept indoors as much as possible. The same caution should be taken with flat-aced breeds and canines with pre-xisting heart or respiratory conditions.
Signs of Respiratory Distress
- Breathing difficulties
- Swelling or inflammation of the mouth & eyes
- Lethargy
- Increased salivation
- Excessive coughing or sneezing
Stay Indoors
On particularly hazy days, it is recommended that owners keep potty breaks short and keep your companion indoors as much as possible. When the PSI goes above 200, avoid long walks and vigorous outdoor activities and keep all windows tightly closed. As dogs are prone to boredom just like us, this could be a good time to brush up on your dog's training and engage in enrichment games to work off his excess energy in the absence of outdoor walks.
Daily Wipe-owns
Allergens from the haze might cause skin irritation or eczema with some dogs, so it is recommended that you do a thorough wipe-own of your pet's fur after his outdoor sessions. Avoid excessive showers as these could potentially give him a dry rash.
Keep Your Pet Well Hydrated
Dust particles from the air will settle in your dog's water bowl, so be sure to change the water regularly and encourage your buddy to stay well hydrated. This can help soothe his irritated or inflamed mucous membrane (which can be rather painful). Pet paw-ents can also increase your fur kid's water intake with a tasty meat or fish broth. As rich sources of omega- fatty acids, these can also help the body combat respiratory infections.
No N95 Masks
Nope, nope, and nope. No matter how much you're tempted to put a makeshift mask over your dog's face, don't do it. This can impede your pal's natural ability to expel heat and cause a heat stroke instead. If the haze situation is bad enough for you to even consider giving him a mask, perhaps he shouldn't be allowed outdoors at all.
That being said, we urge you to keep these handy tips in mind as this (probably) won't be the last time we experience haze in sunny Singapore.
