by KYW's Nan Talleno
Exposure to secondhand smoke can cause many of the same harmful effects to animals as it does to people.
Secondhand smoke can produce a wide range of illnesses from respiratory problems to cancer. New research now indicates that secondhand smoke is extremely unsafe in many ways for both humans and animals. It can cause inflammatory changes in the airways and lungs of dogs, just as it can with humans, according to the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center. Dogs can develop life-threatening nasal and lung cancers. Cats can develop malignant lymphoma. This can be caused from the residue left on their fur and consequently they start to ingest it as they groom.
The ASPCA also advises to keep your pets clear from ashtrays. Nicotine is highly toxic to animals so ingesting cigarettes can cause anything from a decreased rate of breathing, to muscle twitching, coma or even death.
Do yourself and your pets a tremendous favor and think about a healthier life for all of you--cigarette-free.
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