Safe Dog Walks in Smog: Tips for雾霾 Days

Impact of Smog on Dogs

1. Increased Respiratory Infections

The most apparent effect of smog on dogs is the rise in respiratory infections. Many pet owners have reported that their dogs start coughing after just a short walk during smoggy days. Inhaling PM2.5 particles can even lead to irreversible,实质性 lung damage, potentially causing pneumonia and even lung cancer over time.

2. Higher Risk of Catching Diseases

Smoggy weather, with its low wind speeds and low pressure, allows viruses to linger and become more active, significantly increasing the risk of infection.

3. Hair Damage

Particles floating in the air can adhere to a dog's body, causing hair to become dry and nutrientdeprived, and damaging the hair follicles. If the dog licks itself, these particles can be ingested, leading to internal harm.

4. Increased Fear and Risk of Accidents

Reduced visibility during smog can lead to increased fear in dogs, raising the risk of accidents and unexpected incidents.

Why is the impact of smog on dogs more severe?

1. Lack of Nasal Fur for Filtration

Like most animals, dogs lack nasal fur, which means they have a weaker ability to filter and clean large dust particles compared to humans.

2. Highly Sensitive Sense of Smell

Dogs have highly developed olfactory organs, with abundant olfactory nerves in their nasal mucosa. This "overuse" of their sense of smell can lead to an increased intake of dust and bacteria.

3. Lower Height and Exposure to Car Emissions

Dogs, being shorter, are more likely to breathe in car emissions and road dust, which are more harmful than to humans.

4. OpenMouth Breathing

When walking, dogs tend to breathe through their mouths, bypassing the nasal passages' complex filtering system, allowing polluted air to enter their airways directly, thereby increasing the extent of damage. This is why dogs are more susceptible to the threats posed by PM2.5, and it's crucial to be cautious during smoggy weather.

What to Do If Your Dog Refuses to Defecate at Home?

If you must take your dog out for a walk, consider the following measures to minimize potential harm:

1. Limit Walk Time and Avoid Early Morning

After taking care of their bathroom needs, bring your dog back home as quickly as possible. Avoid prolonged outdoor stays and intense physical activities like running. Always use a leash to control your dog's movements and prevent them from getting lost or engaging in excessive exercise. It's especially important to avoid morning walks during smoggy weather, particularly for young or elderly dogs with weaker immune systems.

2. Dress Your Dog Appropriately

Both you and your dog can wear reflective clothing to enhance visibility and provide some protection.

3. Cleanse Your Dog's Face and Body

After returning home, wash your dog's face and nose with warm water. Increase bathing frequency or clean their body and fur daily.

4. Provide Plenty of Water

Keep fresh water available for your dog to drink at any time.

5. Choose Garages or Gardens for Walks

Garages and gardens can be excellent alternatives for dog walks.

6. Protect Against Respiratory Infections

Pay attention to any signs of coughing or respiratory history, especially in brachycephalic breeds. Treat coughs promptly and consider preventive measures, such as using cough suppressants like traditional Chinese medicine cough syrup, as a precaution.