Hazardous air quality forecast for much of Minnesota Thursday as fires grow

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 this week driven by wildfire smoke are creating daily challenges for Minnesotans — and their pets.

As with humans, particulates in wildfire smoke can enter a pet’s bloodstream, Dr. Andrew Bean, a veterinarian with the Animal Emergency & Referral Center of Minnesota, told MPR News.

When examining a pet to see if it’s been affected by smoke, Bean said he looks for signs of lethargy. “I also look at how hard is the animal breathing. Are their sides really heaving with effort?”

Get the latest information on wildfires in Minnesota

Animal breeds with flat faces such as pugs, bulldogs or Persian cat can also be at higher risk. 

The air is also a problem for birds, which are especially susceptible to wildfire smoke as they take in large amounts of oxygen, said Bean.

“Any bird that is really fluffy, looks drowsy, doesn't fly away when you approach it, maybe is losing its balance, those should be safely contained … and brought to us,” said Tami Vogel, executive director of the 

Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota

Tami Vogel speaks on how wildfire smoke can effect wild animals 

For other wildlife and pet tips, listen to both conversations by clicking the players above.

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Minnesota Wildfires

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Live updates: Wildfires in Minnesota

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Lukas Levin

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Wildfire smoke has choked much of state for two days but humans aren’t the only ones dealing with the hazardous air. 

Dr. Andrew Bean talks about how wildfire smoke can affect domestic animals

MPR News - Programs - Tami Vogel speaks on how wildfire smoke can effect wild animals 

From wild to domestic, how wildfire smoke can affect animals

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