This post has been updated from its original content to include dog fire safety tips to stay safe and healthy through California’s fire season.
California residents are all too familiar with the effects of fire season on the land and in the air. Not to mention the significant amount of ash and debris falling from the sky.
We’re not the only ones breathing in the fiery air. Our dog’s noses are exponentially stronger than ours, meaning they are even more affected than we are.
At Fitdog, we’re taking certain preventative measures to promote the health and safety of our dogs and are advising you do too! Here are some tips to keep your pup safe.
Fire safety tips for dogs
- Have plenty of fresh water for both you and your dog. The fires have caused a rapid decline in humidity (only 7%), so dehydration is a serious risk during this time.
- Stay indoors as much as possible. Until the quality of the air improves, we urge everyone to keep their pets inside. Additionally, animals who live in the Santa Monica mountain range will be displaced. If you see stray or wandering animals contact LA Animal Services at 888-452-7381.
- Limit playtime. Yeah, it’s a bummer. However, compromised oxygen levels might make it harder for your dog to catch their breath. We advise not letting your dog get too physically active outside while there are active fires nearby.
- Get an air filter for you and your pup. While supplies last, having an air filter in your home will help improve your quality of sleep and health.
- Be prepared! Create a Pet Preparedness Kit in the event you need to evacuate your area.
Here are some breeds we’ve identified that may be more at risk than other breeds:
- Short-nosed dogs such as Boxers, Pugs, Pekinese, Bulldogs, and French Bulldogs. These dogs tend to have to work harder to breathe while playing in normal situations, so they will likely be more affected by the smoke.
- Dogs prone to eye infections and blocked tear ducts such as Maltese, Pugs, Pekinese, Cocker Spaniels, Poodles or any other dogs with sensitive skin or bulging eyes. We would highly recommend that owners of these types of dogs buy a basic saline rinse to flush your dog’s eyes throughout the day to prevent irritation and infection.
- Dogs prone to allergies (breeds vary significantly). If your dog is not breathing due to an allergic reaction, you can administer a Benadryl antihistamine and bring them to the closest veterinarian. Check doses for dogs online.
Help those affected by fires
Currently, Operation Blankets of Love is collecting much-needed items for pets displaced by the Southern California fires including dog and cat food, dog beds, blankets, and towels. If you’re able to donate any of these items, you can drop them off at Fitdog in Santa Monica and OBOL will pick them up from us.
Fitdog is offering a 10% discount for dogs boarding with us due to fire evacuations. Call us at (310) 828-3647 to set up your boarding reservation.
Nobody wants to have to prepare for fire season, but it is something responsible owners must do. We hope these dog fire safety tips help keep you and your loved ones safe this season!