Climate Change and Pets

Climate change can also have impacts on our pets and companion animals, including:

• Heat stress: Increased temperatures can cause heat stress in dogs, cats, and other pets, leading to dehydration, overheating, and even death.
• Changes in Disease Outbreaks: Climate change can alter the distribution of parasites and diseases, increasing the risk of disease outbreaks in pet populations.
• Changes in Wildlife Populations: Changes in wildlife populations can lead to increased encounters between pets and wildlife, putting pets at risk for injury or disease.
• Natural Disasters: Climate change can lead to more frequent and intense natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and wildfires, which can displace pets and cause stress and injury.
• Air Quality: Poor air quality due to increased air pollution can affect the respiratory health of pets, especially those with pre-existing conditions such as asthma or allergies.

It is important for pet owners to be aware of the potential impacts of climate change on their pets and to take steps to protect their health and well-being, such as providing access to shade and water during hot weather, being cautious during natural disasters, and ensuring their pets receive regular veterinary care.