Is wildfire smoke putting your pet at risk? What you need to know

A dog walker ventures out as heavy smoke burns from wildfires. (Larry MacDougal)

Simcoe County remains shrouded in wildfire smoke, with another air quality warning in effect and experts reminding residents that these conditions can be just as dangerous for pets as they are for people.

Air quality has reached orange alert levels Thursday as smoke from northern Ontario continues to drift south.

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is asking pet owners to keep their beloved animals indoors as much as possible until smoky conditions improve.

Protecting pets from wildfire smoke

Outdoor time should be restricted to brief bathroom breaks, while walks, runs and playtime should be postponed.

The SPCA also recommends keeping windows and doors closed, using a HEPA air purifier and running air conditioning on recirculation to help keep smoky air out of the home.

• ‘Everyone’s health is at risk’ ECCC issues air quality alert across region

Pet owners are asked to monitor their animals for signs of smoke exposure, which may include coughing, sneezing, red or watery eyes, unusual tiredness or difficulty breathing.

If your pet has any of these symptoms, the organization advises contacting a veterinarian.

Some pets are at greater risk, such as flat-faced breeds like pugs, bulldogs and Persian cats, as well as puppies, kittens, older pets and animals with existing health conditions.

Ontario SPCA helping displaced animals

The Ontario SPCA tells CTV News that it is preparing to assist families who have been displaced by the wildfires in northern Ontario.

The organization says it is working with the Ministry of Emergency Preparedness and Response and northern rescue partners to support evacuees with pets if needed.

• Smoky skies: keeping an eye on local fire bans & alerts

Its Northwest Animal Centre in Thunder Bay is collecting pet supplies for displaced families and transferring adoptable animals to southern Ontario shelters to make room for pets that could need temporary care.

The organization is urging families to include all pets in their emergency evacuation plans to ensure that no one is left behind.