Coffee Break August: Show how much your pet means to you this month as 26TH August is National Dog Day. Say PAWS OFF to become smoke free

On the 26^{th of} August we observe National Dog Day, originally an idea for an awareness day to raise attention for animals residing in shelters and adoption centres. On National Dog Day, dog lovers are encouraged to honour their furry friends and promote positive physical and mental animal wellbeing everywhere.

As a nation of animal lovers, we make sure our pets live a good life and have their daily needs met as well as including them as members of our family. We are often aware of how second and third hand smoke affects people, especially our children, but did you know that being exposed to smoke in the home effects our pets too?  Toxins in tobacco smoke can harm your pet as it can damage your pets’ cells like it can humans. Research has shown that our pets can be exposed to a significant amount of smoke when living in a smoker`s home and will often suffer from the same problems as we do such as breathing difficulties, asthma, skin allergies, eye problems and even cancers such as lung, nose, mouth and lymphoma.  Dog`s noses are particularly sensitive and act as big air filters. Long nosed dogs are particularly at risk of nose cancer and shorter nosed dogs are at more risk of lung cancer.

Cats are particular at risk as they groom themselves and digest the smoke particles and toxins that have settled in their coats, which can lead to mouth cancer. Our feathered friends also suffer the effects of passive smoking as they have very sensitive respiratory tract`s and they also groom their feathers. Even if you smoke with the doors or windows open, the smoke still circulates around the home and settles in house dust, carpets, rug`s and other soft furnishings. Fish are also at risk as nicotine dissolves easily in water and is toxic to them.

If your health is on the top of your list of reasons why you want to quit smoking why not have your pet`s health on the top of your list too.  This will be a great encouragement to start your quit attempt. Why not spring clean your house with pet friendly cleaning products, starting with your pets bedding and move on to the rest of the home including the carpets and soft furnishings and curtains where there are toxins, residue`s and deep-rooted smells from tobacco smoke. This new freshness in the home will help you keep motivated to stay smoke free. Why not treat your pet to some special pet grooming products with the money you have saved from not smoking. You`ll want them to smell like this all the time from now on!  If you smoke in your car then deep clean it and treat yourself to a fabulously smelling air freshener. 

 Your furry friends are at risk from discarded cigarette butts in the garden as these contain nicotine, heavy metals and toxins and can be accidentally eaten by your pet. Why not give your outside space a summer makeover too! It does not have to be expensive or time consuming. Just small changes can make a real difference to how you view your space and what it is used for. Removing all ashtrays and old cigarette butts is a great start. Think how you might like to use your outside area and create a domain that is yours to enjoy being in that does not involve the daily ritual and bind of going outside for a cigarette.  Make it a smoke free zone that is inviting, stimulating and a positive environment for you and your pet to be in. Changing your space in small ways often changes your perspective in bigger ways! It`s worth remembering that pets are sensitive and at risk from nicotine in any form.  If you are using NRT (nicotine replacement products) or electronic cigarettes and vapes, be mindful of where and how you use them, away from pets and be aware how you discard your products, so your pets are not at risk from E-cigarette liquid, batteries or components of the device. Wash your hands after smoking or vaping! Signs of nicotine poisoning in pets can be vomiting, being lethargic, unsteady, shaking, a fast heart rate, drooling and seizures and your vet should be consulted straight away

As your health starts to improve from the day you stop smoking and your energy levels increase and breathing becomes easier, then your pets will benefit from this too. You`ll have extra energy to throw the ball in your new smoke free garden or go on more walks with your dog. This will also help you keep busy, and the fresh air and exercise will help with any withdrawal symptoms and urges to smoke. Say PAWS OFF to become smoke free and make this month your time to quit for good for your own health and wellbeing as well as for your pets! NHS Stop Smoking Service - Yorkshire Smokefree

Carrie at Yorkshire Smoke Free: Proud to be owned by my fur family Cally, Max, Shelby and Arthur