Pet Haven

The carcinogenic substances found in cigarettes are harmful to tissue but recent research at Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital headed by John Reif, professor of epidemiology, has found that pets are as at risk of heart disease and lung cancer as humans. The more people smoke within the household, the higher their dogs' risk of developing cancer[1]. The shape of the dog’s nose actually increases the risk for some dogs. Not surprisingly dogs with long noses such as the Afghans and collies expose of the dogs nose to the harmful elements in cigarette smoke and they are more at risk. There risk of getting cancer is twice as high if they live with a family of smokers. The research found that the levels of toxins can stay in a dog’s body for months after they have been exposed to secondhand smoke.

However it is not just cancer that is the problem pats can be allergic to cigarette smoke and it may cause asthma, lung infections or lung inflammation.

• Why UV rays are harmful for dogs and what can protect them from sunburn.
• Spaying and Neutering your Pet, Part II
• A Dog’s Food is not for your Cat
• Keeping an Indoors Only Cat
• Spaying and Neutering your Pet, Part I

Comments are closed.