Air Quality, Mould and Pets

It is well researched and documented that poor indoor air quality can have serious negative health effects on your family. Airborne dust, poor ventilation, chemicals and hidden mold can cause allergic reactions as well as more serious health issues and disease in the elderly and young children.  

However, it’s becoming more apparent that your pets may be suffering too.

Animal Wellness Magazine published an article last year stating that ‘Indoor air pollution is an issue in every modern home”. The Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine published a clinical trial in 2018 which found a direct link between ‘Indoor Air Pollution and Respiratory Disease in Dogs and Cats”. Also, PetMD recently published an article on “Dogs and Asthma caused by Poor Indoor Air Quality”.

Poor Indoor Air Quality can come in many forms and varying severity. All experts agree that dogs and cats are more susceptible to negative health reactions to indoor pollutants due to the fact that they are smaller in size than their human companions.

Airborne dust seems to be one of the most common causes of negative health reactions in pets. Airborne dust is microscopic and in most cases can’t be seen with the naked eye. Sure, we can see hair and dust accumulating on surfaces and furniture…but how do you know what is airborne and to what extent are you breathing in dust, and how much. Simple answer…have an air quality test done.

Hidden mold that creates airborne mold spores is the second leading cause in disease in dogs and cats due to air pollution. Mold does not have to be visible or create an odour to be creating airborne mold spores. Depending on the type of mold or species of mold, the negative health reactions to mold could be mild allergies to more severe diseases such as lung cancer.

Chemicals or VOC’s also account for the most common trigger in health reactions. VOC’s can be emitted by adhesives, paints or materials used for building materials, furniture or decorations as well as household cleaning agents, candles and perfumed articles. Keep in mind your dog can smell 1000 greater than you. Solution?  Test the air!

Even poor ventilation can have an effect on all occupants including your dog or cat. Gases like carbon monoxide (CO), or carbon dioxide (CO2) even radon can build up in poorly ventilated homes. Unless you have an indoor air quality test performed you would not know if 

We can help you keep your pet safe from indoor air pollution.  Have your indoor air quality tested for hidden mold growth, airborne dust issues, chemical off gassing as well as poor ventilation.  A comprehensive indoor air quality test can show you how to make your home a healthy home for your dog or cat.