FILE-A dog is shown in a park in New York City. (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images)
Exposure to poor air quality is not only a problem for people but also pets, and the steps you take to protect your furry friends can go a long way to ensure their well-being.
Dr. Georgina Marquez, a veterinarian in Yorba Linda, California, tells FOX Weather that humans and pets have the same respiratory tract, but anything that impacts a human is going to affect a dog or cat possibly more severely because the animals are smaller and lower to ground and "they're inhaling a lot more stuff, a lot more particles."
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How will I know if my pet is impacted by poor air quality?
Owners should look out for certain symptoms which are signs that your pet could be having issues related to poor air quality.
These symptoms are coughing, sneezing, and breathing a little faster than normal. Marquez tells FOX Weather that owners that notice these problems should call their veterinarian.
Preventing air quality issues for pets
Knowing the air quality in advance gives you time to plan to protect yourself and your pets. If the air quality is bad, it is best to turn on the air condition and air filters and avoid letting your pets go outdoors, Marquez explains to FOX Weather.
What are effective ways to check air quality?
One of the best ways to check the air quality in your area is by visiting the site airnow.gov or you can also use the FOX Weather app which gives you the latest air quality information for your current location. It’s available for both iOS and Android devices.