3 tips to protect your dog from indoor pollution

Indoor pollution is a significant problem. Whether or not you live in a particularly polluted area or experience wildfire smoke, poor air filtration and ventilation can lead to pollutants being stuck inside your home. Plus, certain activities and products can further contribute to indoor air pollution, which can harm your health and the health of your dog.

Consider these tips to improve indoor air quality and reduce air pollution and improve everyone’s wellness in the process.

1. Change air filters

Keeping your air filters clean and fresh is the key to getting clean and fresh air into your home. Air filters often come built into air conditioning units and other parts of your HVAC system, and you must know where they are so that you can access and clean them regularly. Depending on the amount you use your HVAC system, you may need to clean them once a month or more. You can also all in a professional to clean the system thoroughly for you. If needed, get a separate air filtration system to support your air conditioning units. 

2. Vacuum regularly

Most people don’t realize just how many pollutants and debris carpets can trap. In fact, your pet can contribute majorly to the buildup of dirt and allergens, eventually leading to odor if not regularly cleaned. That’s why you should work to vacuum carpets and any other soft surfaces in your home at least once a week. Likewise, sweep hardwood floors and keep other surfaces clean to reduce the amount of dust and allergens that everyone breathes.

When cleaning, be sure to avoid harsh chemical-filled products because they can leave a residue that’s dangerous for you and your pets. Instead, opt for natural cleaners, including baking soda, which you can sprinkle onto carpets to help absorb odors and odor-causing bacteria. 

3. Avoid smoking

If you or your guests smoke, you know how the smell and smoke have a way of lingering in the air. Second-hand smoke is detrimental to your health, and it’s also awful for your dog’s health, which is why it’s best to only smoke outdoors. If you smoke inside, try to confine it to one room, preferably one where your dog does not go. You should not smoke in the presence of your dog, as it can irritate their lungs, and long-term exposure can cause harm. 

Tobacco smoke is considered a combustion pollutant, which is discussed in detail by Krauss and Crane. If you smoke, be sure that you have proper air filtration set up inside of your home to try and keep as much of the smoke out of the air as possible. 

Take action now to reduce indoor pollution

Don’t wait to improve indoor air pollution. Take simple steps like banning smoking from your home, vacuuming regularly, and changing HVAC and air filters.

Aside from this list, there are countless things you can do to help your dog remain healthy, including feeding a healthy diet and getting regular exercise. Best of all, it will help you be healthier, too!

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