Bennie's Blogs

It didn't matter if the smoke was from local fires or those burning in Georgia, the result was the same -- it was making being outdoors uncomfortable.

Donna Howard, director of the Flagler Humane Society, says the dogs in their care have also felt the effect of the fires. "We would take our dogs outside and they were rubbing their noses within 10 minutes," she said.

To remedy the problem, the shelter staff is limiting the time the dogs are outside and Howard recommends that pet owners in the area do the same, and change their air conditioning filters at least once a month for everyone's health and comfort.

"The smoke bothers the pets just as it does you," she said.

While all dogs and cats can suffer from the smoke there are breeds that are more susceptible to ill effects. Short nose dogs like pugs, Boston terriers and Shih Tzus should be kept inside an air-conditioned area when smoke is thick in the air.

"It really is not good for them," Howard said. "These breeds have enough trouble with the heat in Florida. Adding smoke to it just compounds their breathing problems."

Howard said that older and overweight dogs should also be watched more carefully and kept indoors.

There are those who can't imagine a day without taking a walk with their dog. For these people Howard recommends picking a time when the air is clearest. "Take your dog on shorter walks while the air is clear," she said. "If you are walking for exercise, try something else like tossing a ball or playing with a toy."

Garages are generally no place for a pet but in a pinch can make a good play area for you and your pup. Remove the cars, lower the door and let your dog run around. Dogs should never be left alone in the garage; there are just too many toxic items for them to get into.

Flagler Humane Society shelter, 1 Shelter Drive, Palm Coast, is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. Log onto flaglerhumanesociety.org for information, or call (386) 445-1814.