Dogs and Second-Hand Smoke

Second and third-hand smoke is toxic to dogs.

Most people know that smoking tobacco products comes with health risks like respiratory problems, heart disease, and cancer. Did you know that dogs in the homes of smokers are at risk for all of those issues, too?

How Are Dogs Exposed to Cigarette Smoke?

Dogs are exposed to the thousands of toxic chemicals in cigarette smoke in four main ways:

How Are Dogs Affected by Smoke?

Studies have shown increased rates of lung cancer, nasal cancer, and sinus cancer in dogs that live with smokers over those that do not. Respiratory problems and heart conditions are probably more common, too.

How Can You Protect Your Dog from Smoke-Related Illnesses?

The best thing you can do is quit smoking or help anyone living in your home who smokes to quit. While you are doing that, here are some ways to decrease your dog's exposure to the smoke:

If you are struggling to quit smoking, talk with your doctor to get ideas to help you quit and find as much support as possible. You can try Quitza.com to find support from other pet-owners who are quitting.

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