It is that time of the year again in Singapore -  the haze season. This recurring issue, caused by the extensive forest fires in Indonesia, is a familiar challenge for us Singaporeans.  

Haze is composed of dust, smoke or other dry particles in the air, which obscures our visibility and gives the atmosphere a smoky appearance. While most of us understand that haze can lead to acute symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and a general feeling of fatigue, it is important to recognise that our pets are equally affected. In fact, they may be even more sensitive to the polluted air than we are. As responsible pet owners, it is our duty to be aware of how to safeguard our furry companions from the haze.

In today’s entry, we will explore the dangers of haze to our pets and discuss the preventive measures that pet owners can take to protect their pets.

Impact of Haze on Pets

Respiratory Distress

With prolonged exposure to haze, our pet’s respiratory systems can be adversely affected. They might exhibit symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath, particularly if they have pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma. 

Eye & Skin Irritation

The fine particulate matter and pollutants suspended in the air can cause discomfort to our pet’s eye and skin. These airborne particles can irritate their eyes, leading to symptoms such as redness, excessive tearing, squinting and even itching. Additionally, these tiny particles can settle on the fur and skin of our pets, causing irritation. This combination can make our pets uncomfortable and restless.

Dehydration

During hazy conditions, pets are less inclined to consume water, primarily due to respiratory irritation caused by the polluted air. Moreover, the elevated levels of particulate matter in the air can contribute to increased water loss through respiration, as pets may pant more to cool themselves or alleviate throat irritation. It is important for pet owners to ensure that their pets stay adequately hydrated and minimise the risk of dehydration, which can lead to a range of health issues.

Reduced Outdoor Activities

The poor air quality and reduced visibility makes the outdoor environment less safe and comfortable for our pets. To protect our furry companions, pet owners are forced to keep their pets indoors to protect them from inhaling the polluted air. This reduction in outdoor activities can lead to a lack of exercise, playtime and socialisation, which are vital to a pet’s physical and mental well-being.

Prevention

Keep Your Pets Indoor

During this hazy season, it is best to keep your pet indoors as much as possible to limit their exposure to the polluted air. You should keep potty breaks short, and keep walks with your pets in the unhealthy air to a minimum. By limiting their time outside in unhealthy air conditions, it helps to reduce the risk of respiratory issues. In the absence of outdoor walks, you can engage in training sessions with your pets or organise enrichment activities to keep them from being bored.

Increase Air Quality

There are several effective measures to enhance your indoor air quality. Utilising fans and air conditioners can aid in air circulation, ensuring a fresh and clean indoor environment. Additionally, it is highly recommended to invest in an air purifier with HEPA filters, which is proficient at cleansing and purifying any contaminated air that might infiltrate your home.

Refresh Pet’s Water Bowl

It is essential to refresh our pet's water bowls once or twice a day. Airborne particles from the polluted air may settle in their water bowl, leading to contamination. Keeping their water fresh helps to mitigate the potential effects of poor air quality on their respiratory system. This also encourages our pets to drink more water, and staying hydrated can help to soothe any irritation or inflammation of their mucous membranes. 

Check for Signs of Discomfort

We should regularly monitor our pets for signs of respiratory distress, eye or skin irritation or any unusual behavioural changes. If you suspect that something might be amiss, consult your veterinarian immediately to prevent any condition from worsening. Early detection is crucial and can swiftly address any issues, preventing them from escalating into more serious conditions.

Here are some signs you should look out for:

• Respiratory issues - sneezing, coughing, wheezing, harsh or laboured breathing sounds
• Skin irritation (e.g. rashes)
• Eye irritation - redness, abnormal discharge, squinting
• Vomiting or loss of appetite
• Weakness or lethargy
• Pale gums

This list is not exhaustive. If you think your pet is behaving strangely and if you suspect it is related to their health, it is best to consult with your veterinarian immediately.

Daily Wipe Downs

During potty breaks or walks, it is important to note that the  dust particles can easily be trapped in the fur of your pets. Not only will the polluted air cause skin irritations, it is highly likely that our pets will ingest these particles while self-grooming. Therefore, it is advisable to make post-outdoor wipe-downs a regular practice to rid your pets of these pollutants. 

Do Not Put Masks on Your Pets

While this may not be a preventive measure, it is crucial to note that we should not be forcing our pets to wear masks. Placing a mask over their mouth impedes their natural ability to expel heat and could potentially lead to a heatstroke.

Haze poses a significant concern in Singapore, and its effects on our pets should not be underestimated. To ensure their well-being and safety, it is important to take proactive steps to safeguard our furry friends during this hazy period. After all, they rely on us for their care and protection, even during challenging environmental conditions.