If the sky over Stark County has looked hazy this summer, you are not imagining it. Smoke from Canadian wildfires has drifted into Ohio again, triggering air quality advisories across the state. While most of us know to limit outdoor time during these smoky stretches, many pet owners are surprised to learn that their dogs and cats face the same risks we do, sometimes even greater ones.
Why Wildfire Smoke Is Hard on Pets
Pets breathe faster than people and spend more time close to the ground, where fine particulate matter tends to settle. Dogs with short snouts, cats with asthma, and senior pets with existing heart or lung conditions are especially vulnerable. Even healthy young animals can experience irritation and discomfort when air quality drops into the unhealthy range.
Signs Your Pet May Be Affected
- Coughing, wheezing, or labored breathing
- Red or watery eyes
- Reduced appetite or unusual lethargy
- Nasal discharge
- Disorientation or reluctance to move
If you notice any of these symptoms, especially in a pet with a history of respiratory or heart issues, contact Lake Cable Animal Hospital at (330) 499-9370.
Tips for Keeping Pets Safe During Smoky Days
Keep walks short and stick to early morning or evening hours when smoke levels tend to be lower. Popular routes through Stark Parks trails, Jackson Township greenways, and the Canal Fulton towpath are all worth checking on the Ohio EPA’s air quality tracker before heading out. On advisory days, swap the long walk for a shorter bathroom break and make up the exercise indoors with a favorite toy or a game of fetch down the hallway.
Keep windows closed and run air conditioning if you have it, ideally with a clean filter. Litter boxes and pet beds should stay in the room with the best air circulation, away from drafty doors that let outside air in.
When to Call Your Veterinarian
Mild symptoms often resolve once air quality improves, but pets with asthma, bronchitis, or heart disease can decline quickly during smoke events. If your pet is struggling to breathe, seems unusually weak, or simply is not acting like themselves, do not wait it out. Dr. Heidi Watters and the team at Lake Cable Animal Hospital are here to help North Canton and Canton area pet owners navigate these unpredictable summer air quality days.
Schedule a Wellness Check
Pets with existing respiratory or cardiac conditions benefit from a check up before smoke season peaks. Call (330) 499-9370 or visit us at 5222 Fulton Dr NW, Canton, OH 44718 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Watters and give your pet the best chance of breathing easy this summer.