As air pollution levels go off the charts, not only humans but pets are also facing the brunt of bad weather
Several veterinary doctors and experts opened up about how our furry friends are more susceptible to air pollution and what kind of precautions one must take to keep them safe and secure. Yes, our four-legged friends are at a higher risk of getting ill which can also prove fatal.
The continually degrading air quality is something to blame for the ever-shortening life spans of our beloved pets. While we do care for our pets, what we commonly overlook is the effect of pollution on them. Continuous and prolonged exposure to degraded air quality can give rise to a variety of lung, throat and nose diseases such as bronchitis or even asthma in our pets.
Dr Satish Madham of North Delhi Pet Clinic suggests that the owners should keep their pets indoors and try taking them out when the smog is less.
"At my clinic, I guide and instruct my clients to constantly monitor their pets for any signs of respiratory distress or irritation," he proposed.
"Due to the rise in pollution, the incidence of vomiting, respiratory distress has increased in the pets," he added.
While keeping pets indoors might sound like a tedious job, as they like to spend time in the open spaces, it is the need of the hour considering the poor air quality, opined Dr Rajeev Ranjan Sinha, owner of Ranjan pet clinic in New Delhi.
"Try to avoid any kind of outdoor activities as the pets are highly vulnerable to pollution related illnesses. So it's better to keep them engaged with indoor activities," the vet said. "People should also avoid having any kind of pesticide in their house which can adversely affect the lives of their pets," added Ranjan.
