For the Love of Pets: Protecting your pets from ashfall

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Last weekend and early this week, there was significant ashfall in Barbados due to the La Soufrière volcanic eruption in the neighbouring island of St Vincent.

Volcanologists predict that the eruption can go on for weeks because of the changes and the dynamics of the system.

Here in Barbados, the ashfall impacted every facet of our lives, from respiratory complaints, businesses being forced to close, the new school term being delayed, etc. But what about our pets? Last week, we were mostly caught off-guard, but here are some tips for keeping our pets safe, should we experience another ashfall.

• Keep all your pets indoors as much as possible.

• Not one should get left behind, including outdoor pets like guard dogs and cats, who are vulnerable now more than ever.

• This also goes for their food and water bowls, as volcanic ashes are toxic and can do them great harm.

• If you see any possible trace of ash on their fur or skin, immediately stop them from noticing it and licking it; quickly remove ash from them by either wiping them down or giving them a bath (if there’s a significant amount of ash on them).

• If you suspect that they may have already come into contact with volcanic ash, watch out for symptoms like coughing, difficulty breathing, and sneezing.

• If your pet exhibits these symptoms, have them checked by your nearest veterinarian as soon as you can but don’t forget to protect yourself first.

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