Pets, wildfire smoke, and extreme heat

Reduce exposure

• Keep pets indoors as much as possible when outdoor air is unhealthy.
• Use a cleaner-air room, or the coolest safe room available, and keep pets there during the worst hours.
• Limit outdoor exercise and keep bathroom breaks short.
• Keep fresh water available at all times.

Know where your supplies are

• Know where the air purifier, replacement filters, fans, or safe cooling supplies are kept.
• Identify a backup air-conditioned destination in case the home becomes unsafe.
• Note these locations in your Emergency Plan so a helper can find them too.

Pets that need extra caution

• Older pets and very young pets
• Pregnant animals
• Pets with heart or lung conditions
• Short-nosed dogs and cats
• Birds, which are especially sensitive to poor air quality

When to contact a veterinarian

Contact a veterinarian promptly if you notice any of the following. Do not wait for the air to clear.

• Difficult, rapid, or open-mouth breathing
• Repeated coughing or gagging
• Unusual weakness, stumbling, or disorientation
• Collapse or any other serious symptom

Follow official instructions

• Follow local emergency and air-quality guidance for your area.
• Leave early if officials advise it — smoke and heat conditions can change quickly.