Can Dangerous Air Quality in Illinois Cause Health Risks For Our Pets?

Smoke from the Canadian wildfires is still overwhelming Midwestern residents, but are we the only ones experiencing health issues because of it?

Midwest Air Quality Hits Dangerous Levels

If you're not taking the air quality levels in parts of the Midwest seriously yet, you better start ASAP. As I write this Illinois' air quality index is hovering around 230, which is officially at "dangerous" levels for everyone, not just people with sensitivities like asthma and allergies.

So many people are complaining of coughs, headaches, runny noses, wheezing/asthma attacks, and more all caused by the smoky conditions, but will we be seeing relief anytime soon?

Here's an update that Rockford, IL Meteorologist Joey Marino posted this morning that might make you feel a little better;

Is Poor Air Quality Dangerous For Our Pets Too?

Veterinarians are warning pet owners in Illinois to limit the time pets are outdoors when air quality alerts are in effect as they can suffer health problems from the smoke too. Vets also recommend skipping daily walks or any intense outdoor activities until air quality improves.

The American Veterinary Medical Association says to contact your vet immediately if your pet is experiencing any of these symptoms after spending extended time outside:

• Coughing or gagging
• Difficulty breathing, including open-mouth breathing and increased noise when breathing
• Eye irritation and/or excessive watering
• Inflammation of the throat or mouth
• Nasal discharge
• Asthma-like symptoms
• Increased breathing rate
• Fatigue or weakness
• Disorientation or stumbling
• Reduced appetite and/or thirst

If you have livestock that lives outdoors, the American Veterinary Medical Association recommends making sure that plenty of water is available near their feeding areas and limiting exercise when the sky is smoky.

Stay safe, the worst is almost over!