How LA Wildfire Smoke Affects Pets: What to Watch For and How to Protect Them

Even if your pet isn’t directly in a fire-affected area, smoke can still impact their health. The best thing you can do is limit their exposure and make sure they stay as comfortable as possible. Here are some simple ways to keep them safe when the air quality drops.

The easiest way to reduce smoke exposure is to keep pets inside as much as possible. Close windows and doors to prevent smoky air from seeping in. If you have air conditioning, set it to recirculate mode to avoid pulling in outside air.

For bathroom breaks, try to keep outdoor trips short, and avoid peak smoke times—usually in the morning and late afternoon. If you notice a strong smoky smell outside, it’s best to skip walks altogether.

Just because your pet is inside doesn’t mean they’re completely safe—smoke particles can still find their way indoors. Using an air purifier with a HEPA filter can help reduce harmful particles and improve air quality.

Other ways to keep indoor air clean include:

• Placing damp towels near doorways or windows to trap smoke particles.
• Running a humidifier to keep the air moist, which can help soothe irritated airways.
• Avoiding candles, incense, or anything else that adds to indoor air pollution.

Exercise increases your pet’s breathing rate, which means they inhale more smoke if the air quality is poor. Try to keep playtime indoors and avoid any strenuous activities like running, fetching, or long walks.

If your pet has a lot of energy, consider low-impact indoor activities like:

• Puzzle toys or treat-dispensing games.
• Short training sessions to keep them mentally engaged.
• Gentle tug-of-war or hide-and-seek with their favorite toys.

For working dogs or high-energy breeds, breaking up play sessions throughout the day can help keep them stimulated without overexerting them.

Fresh water is essential when pets are exposed to smoky air. Hydration helps flush out toxins and keeps their airways moist, making it easier for them to breathe.

Tips to encourage more drinking:

• Add ice cubes to their water bowl for a refreshing treat.
• Try wet food or add water to their kibble to increase moisture intake.
• Offer broth (low-sodium chicken or beef) for extra hydration.

If your pet seems uninterested in drinking, keep an eye on their gums—dry, sticky gums can be a sign of dehydration.

Even if your pet is indoors, smoke can still affect them. Pay attention to any unusual symptoms that could indicate irritation or distress:

• Coughing or sneezing – A few sneezes might not be a big deal, but persistent coughing is a sign of respiratory irritation.
• Red or watery eyes – If your pet is rubbing their face or squinting a lot, the smoke may be bothering them.
• Lethargy or weakness – A sudden lack of energy could mean they’re struggling with air quality.
• Loss of appetite – If food doesn’t seem appealing, the smoky air could be affecting their sense of smell.
• Increased restlessness – Some pets become anxious or unsettled when air quality is poor.

Smoke particles don’t just affect breathing—they also settle on your pet’s coat. If your pet has been outside, wipe them down with a damp cloth to remove any ash or residue. For long-haired or thick-coated pets, a quick rinse in the tub may be helpful.

Watch for dry, itchy skin or excessive grooming, as some pets may try to clean themselves by licking, which could lead to ingesting harmful particles. If you notice skin irritation, try using a pet-safe moisturizing spray or mild oatmeal shampoo to soothe their coat.

When wildfire smoke is in the air, outdoor exercising can quickly become dangerous for pets. Even if they seem eager to exercise, poor air quality can put extra strain on their lungs and overall health. To keep them safe while maintaining their routine, follow these exercising adjustments.

Before heading outside, always check the Air Quality Index (AQI) to see if it’s safe for your pet to exercise outdoors. Even if the air looks clear, it may still contain harmful particles.

• 0-50 (Good): Safe for all activities.
• 51-100 (Moderate): Exercising is okay, but limit high-intensity workouts.
• 101-150 (Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups): Reduce exercise time, especially for pets with breathing issues.
• 151+ (Unhealthy/Very Unhealthy): Avoid outdoor exercise altogether.

Websites like AirNow.gov or weather apps provide real-time air quality updates, so check them before planning any outdoor training sessions.

Even if the air isn’t thick with smoke, pets can still inhale tiny harmful particles, so it’s best to adjust their activity level.

• Skip high-energy drills – Avoid intense activities like sprinting, jumping, and long-duration obedience work.
• Prioritize mental exercises – Replace high-energy workouts with focus drills, impulse control training, and scent-based games.

Shorten exercise sessions – If outdoor exercise is necessary, keep workouts between 5-10 minutes and monitor your pet for signs of discomfort.

Canine exercise is a must, finding the safest environment makes a big difference.

• Move exercise indoors – A well-ventilated or air-conditioned space is the best option to minimize smoke exposure.
• Pick shaded or covered areas – If you must be outside, choose spots with better air circulation and protection from the elements.

Exercise during low-smoke hours – Early morning or late evening tends to have better air quality than midday when pollution levels peak.

Just like humans, pets need to stay hydrated to keep their lungs clear and their bodies functioning well.

• Always provide fresh water before, during, and after exercising.
• Use a damp towel to wipe your pet’s face, paws, and coat after outdoor exposure. This helps remove any smoke residue they might lick off later.

Watch for signs of distress – If your pet starts coughing, panting excessively, or looking sluggish, stop training immediately and let them rest.

If air quality is too poor for outdoor exercise, you can still keep your pet engaged with creative indoor activities:

• Treadmill exercising – A great way to keep up their fitness in a controlled environment.
• Scent work games – Hide treats or toys around the house and let them track them down using their nose.
• Obedience drills – Reinforce basic commands like heel, stay, and come to keep their mind sharp.

Balance and coordination exercises – Use balance discs, platforms, or simple household objects to improve their stability and confidence.

Even if your pet’s training session is short, proper care afterward is key to keeping them healthy.

• Limit outdoor cooldown time – Avoid letting them play outside too long after exercising, especially when the air quality is poor.
• Check for symptoms – If your pet is coughing, sneezing, or has red eyes, it’s best to skip the next exercise session and allow them time to recover.

With a few simple adjustments, you can keep your pet active while prioritizing their safety. Exercising is important, but their health always comes first—when wildfire smoke is in the air, a lighter routine is the best approach.

Wildfire smoke can affect pets even from miles away, irritating their lungs, eyes, and skin. Some may develop coughing, sneezing, or watery eyes, while others seem more tired or anxious. Even if the air looks clear, tiny particles can still cause discomfort.

The best way to protect them is to limit outdoor exposure, use air purifiers, and keep them hydrated. Gentle indoor activities and regular symptom checks help keep them comfortable. If your pet shows serious symptoms like difficulty breathing or loss of appetite, contact a vet immediately.

At Fon Jon Pet Care, we’re here to help. Whether you need boarding, daycare, or grooming, our team provides a safe, comfortable space for your pets—no matter the weather. 

Reach out today to see how we can support your furry friend!