As Delhi’s sky turns grey and the air gets thick with pollution, we rush to protect ourselves with masks and air purifiers. But have you thought about how this toxic air is affecting your furry family member? Our pets are even more vulnerable to poor air quality than we are.

The good news is that with a few simple steps, you can create a safe haven for your dog or cat and protect their health during Delhi’s harsh pollution season. This practical guide will show you how.

 

Why Pets Are at Higher Risk

Our pets are closer to the ground, which means they breathe in more dust and pollution particles directly. This can lead to serious health problems, especially for:

* Short-nosed breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Persian cats already have sensitive airways.
* Pets with asthma or existing heart conditions.
* Very young puppies/kittens and older pets.

Watch for these warning signs: If your pet is coughing, sneezing, has runny eyes or a nose, seems unusually tired, or is scratching excessively, air pollution could be the culprit.

 

Your 5-Step Pollution Protection Plan

1. Be Smart About Outdoor Time
You don’t need to stop walking entirely, just be strategic about it.
*Check the AQI: Make it a habit to check the Air Quality Index on your phone before heading out. If it’s in the ‘Poor’ or ‘Severe’ category, keep walks very short.
* Timing is Everything: Avoid early mornings and late evenings when pollution tends to be at its worst. A short, brisk walk in the late morning or early afternoon is safer.
* Choose Greener Routes: If you can, walk in a park with plenty of trees instead of along a busy main road.

2. Create a Clean Air Sanctuary at Home
Your home should be a pollution-free retreat.
* Invest in an Air Purifier: This is one of the best things you can do. Place a good-quality HEPA air purifier in the room where your pet spends most of their time.
* Keep It Closed: On days when the AQI is very high, keep your windows and doors closed to prevent polluted air from seeping in.
* Avoid Indoor Pollutants: Don’t burn incense or scented candles, as these can further irritate your pet’s lungs.

3. The “Clean-Up” Routine After Every Walk
Think of pollution as invisible dirt that sticks to your pet’s fur and paws.
* The Paw Wipe: Keep a damp cloth or a packet of pet-safe wipes by your door. Get into the habit of wiping your dog’s paws, legs, and belly as soon as they come inside. For cats with access to balconies, gently wipe their fur if they’ve been outside.
* Regular Baths: Bathing your pet a little more frequently during peak pollution with a mild, vet-recommended shampoo can help wash away settled pollutants.

4. Boost Their Defences from the Inside
A strong body can better fight off the effects of pollution.
* Antioxidant-Rich Diet: Feed them high-quality food. You can ask your veterinarian about adding a small amount of Omega-3 (fish oil) to their diet, which is beneficial for reducing inflammation in their airways.
* Plenty of Fresh Water: Make sure your pet always has access to clean water. Staying hydrated helps keep their respiratory tract moist and better able to flush out irritants.

5. Know When to Call the Vet
Don’t hesitate to seek professional help.
* If your pet’s coughing doesn’t stop, they seem to be struggling to breathe, or are extremely lethargic, “call your vet immediately”.
* A pre-winter check-up is a great idea to ensure your pet is in the best possible health before the pollution peaks.

By taking these proactive steps, you can significantly reduce the impact of Delhi’s infamous smog on your beloved pet. A little vigilance goes a long way in ensuring they stay happy and healthy by your side for years to come.

FAQs

Q: Can I put a mask on my dog when we go for a walk?
A: While it might seem like a solution, most dogs will not tolerate a mask and will try to paw it off, causing more stress than benefit. It’s much more effective to focus on shortening walks, wiping them down afterwards, and improving your home’s air quality.

Q: My cat never goes outside. Is she still at risk?
A: Yes. Polluted air enters our homes through doors and windows. Dust and harmful particles also settle on floors and surfaces where your cat walks and naps. Using an air purifier and regularly wet-mopping your floors are the best ways to protect an indoor-only cat.

 

Is your pet showing signs of respiratory distress? Don’t wait. Our team at ACC Animal Hospital is experienced in managing health issues related to pollution in pets. Schedule a consultation with us to create a personalised protection plan for your furry friend.

Mehul: 8851172126

Website: www.Zuka.in