Community Corner

Your Smoking May Be Killing Your Pets

Experts now believe secondhand smoke is just as dangerous for your four-legged friends.

The dangers of secondhand smoke for humans have been well documented. But for your pets?

Secondhand smoke can cause cancer and respiratory problems in both dogs and cats, according to researchers, including those at Tufts University’s School of Veterinary Medicine, in a recent AP report on CBS Boston.

Cats are actually more at risk than dogs, especially when it comes to developing lymphoma and a fatal mouth cancer, according to the report. Cancer in general kills more cats and dogs than any other disease, according to Morris Animal Foundation in the report.

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There might be a silver lining in this information. People who are told that secondhand smoke can harm pets might be apt to stop smoking to protect their four-legged and winged friends. A study published in Tobacco Control found that 28.4% of smokers who participated in an online survey were more motivated to quit when they heard of the secondhand smoke risks to pets. 

Would you quit smoking for the sake of your pets?

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For more on the dangers of secondhand smoke for pets, read “Tufts Study: Secondhand Smoke As Harmful To Pets As To People” at CBS Boston.


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