Why Urban Life Might Be Cutting Your Dog’s Years Short

City life may be exciting for humans but it is a different story for pets as it is harder for them. Urban life is filled with smoke and dust which is hurting the pets. In cities, dogs get less clean air and green space because the roads are filled with cars creating constant noise and fumes.
While humans protect themselves from this pollution by taking the needed steps, dogs are directly breathing this polluted air. A dog’s body is not built to handle this level of pollution. Your urban life might be cutting your dog’s years short day by day.

While humans take 10 to 20 breaths in a minute, the dogs take 12 to 30 breaths per minute. They have smaller lungs and fasting breathing rate which makes them take in more air in a minute. When the air is filled with toxic gases and dust then their lungs suffer a lot. Since dogs love to explore new things by sniffing which brings more polluted air into their bodies.
Puppies and smaller breeds are more sensitive because their organs are still in the developing stage. Even indoor dogs are not safe from this pollution as the dust and bad air are constantly entering through open windows and they also stick on the clothes of people who come near dogs. Due to consuming all these pollutants, dog’s bodies become weaker and they can be found coughing, sneezing or watery eyes.

When dogs breathe in dust particles it travels deep into their lungs. These pollutants settle there and cause swelling and infections. Dogs have a hard time breathing because of this and with long exposure their heart and liver is also affected. The symptoms start to show slowly. Dogs start getting tired easily after short walks and refuse food. They will cough and sneeze a lot and their fur loses its shine.

Dog Breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs and Shih Tzus already have trouble breathing due to their small noses. Their narrow airways are not able to filter dangerous particles well which is why their noses get blocked easily.
Owners notice these dogs panting more especially after walks or playtimes. They snore loudly and avoid walking too far. If these dogs keep breathing polluted air for a long period of time then they could have serious chronic respiratory issues.

• The best way to protect the dog from inhaling polluted air is to shorten the time spent outdoors, especially if the AQI levels are high on a particular day.
• Try walking the dog in parks or tree-lined streets instead of busy roads.
• Wipe their paws and coats after walks to avoid dust from sticking.
• Use air purifiers and keep the windows closed on high traffic days. Wash the dog's bedding and blankets multiple times a week.
• Visit a vet if the symptoms continue for a long period of time.

Dogs living in highly polluted areas have shorter lifespans. Poor air quality puts a lot of pressure on their lungs, hearts and immune system. Just like humans they also need clean air to survive. Dogs depend on their owners to protect them from these harms.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the lifespan of a street dog in India?The average lifespan for a street dog in India is between 8 and 12 years but also be as short as 3 to 5 years.
2. What is the number one cause of death in dogs?Cancer is the leading cause of death in dogs.
3. Do I need an air purifier if I have pets?Air purifiers help prevent pet allergies at home by removing any dust particles.