Tobacco is Toxic for Toto Too!

The American Legacy Foundation is challenging pet owners to quit smoking for their pets during the month of April, which kicks off Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month. A growing body of research shows there are no safe levels of exposure to secondhand smoke -- for humans or for animals. And one new study shows that nearly 30 percent of pet owners live with at least one smoker.

"While most Americans have been educated about the dangers of smoking to their own bodies, it is equally important that pet owners take action to protect their beloved domestic pets from the dangers of secondhand smoke", said Dr. Cheryl G. Healton, President and CEO of the American Legacy Foundation.

An estimated 50,000 Americans lose their lives to secondhand smoke annually. A number of studies have indicated that animals, too, face health risks when exposed to the toxins in secondhand smoke from respiratory problems, allergies and even nasal and lung cancer in dogs and lymphoma in cats. In addition, the ASPCA lists tobacco smoke as a toxin that is dangerous to pets.

Source: medicalnewstoday.com