As summer nears its end, wildfires across British Columbia continue to burn, leaving our beautiful province with a harsh smoky filter. I used to imagine my summer months ahead filled with marshmallows roasting over a campfire, riding the ATV to my family’s secret huckleberry picking spot, and clear, warm nights ideal for stargazing- but not this summer. Officials state that 2017 has been the worst fire season BC has seen in over 6 decades.

We’re preparing ourselves for the unthinkable, packing emergency kits filled with important items such as water, extra clothing, identification, medications, etc.- but what about our pets? In your preparations, make sure you add essentials for your furry companion as well. Some items may include food, cat litter, leashes, vaccination records, and a pet carrier. To view the full Pet Plan checklist visit here.

The thick smoke that has brought an overwhelming presence to our formerly blue skies has been compared to that of the smog that inhabits China year round. Several air quality advisories issued by Interior Health have instructed that seniors, children, and those affected by respiratory-related conditions remain indoors. Interior Health had also issued air quality advisories recommending that everyone stay indoors. Just as we have felt the effects of the poor air quality, our pets have too. Pets can suffer from the same respiratory conditions as humans, such as asthma. If your pet develops a persistent cough, nasal discharge, or has difficulty breathing, contact your veterinarian right away.

Evacuation alerts, air quality advisories, and highway closures all wrapped into a provincial state of emergency have left the residents of BC panicked, however, with the great efforts of our emergency response teams, and a little support from Mother Nature, we’re beginning to see the smoke clear. Selkirk Veterinary Hospital would like to express our gratitude for the emergency personnel province-wide, and “lend a paw” by offering nail trims and anal gland expressions for a minimum donation of $10.00. All proceeds will go directly to the BCSPCA in aid of the displaced animals of British Columbia.