If you’ve ever experienced a problem with mold, you’ve certainly thought about the potential health risks, and know what to look out for to keep your family safe. You know how mold affects your human family members, but you may not have thought about how mold can harm your pets. Animals, like people, have different levels of sensitivity when it comes to toxic mold, and the reactions can vary from serious to minor. Keep an eye on any strange behavior, and be sure to take action when you notice any issues.
How does Mold Affect Animals?
Toxic mold can affect dogs and cats just the same as it can people. The primary issues come in the form of allergic reactions and respiratory problems. What makes these problems tough to spot, is that they can be caused by plenty of other things. Look for symptoms like excessive scratching, itching or licking, coughing, sneezing, runny eyes and noses, wheezing, loss of appetite, trouble breathing, and lethargy. If these problems persist and there doesn’t seem to be an answer, consider having your home tested for mold. The process is easy, and it could save the life of your pet.
One of the biggest issues associated with animals and black mold, in particular, is that it can cause undue stress on the capillaries in your pet’s lungs. As mold spores cause problems within the respiratory system, it can weaken the capillaries and turn a small problem in to a life-threatening one.
What Should I do if I Suspect Mold?
It’s important that you take measures to protect your family and your pets as soon as you suspect the presence of toxic mold. What you might chalk up to allergies could actually be a more troublesome problem, brewing behind the walls of your home. If you become concerned, take your pet to the vet and have them checked out. Your veterinarian can help treat your pet’s symptoms while you have your home tested for mold. Make sure you tell your vet about your mold suspicions, and ask them for advice.
Contact Environmental Consulting and Contracting Group
If you suspect that mold might be an issue in your home, don’t hesitate to take the proper measures to ensure the safety of you and your family members. It’s always better to be safe rather than sorry. Contact the professionals at Environmental Consulting and Contracting Group. With more than 30 years in the mold remediation industry, we have the experience and tools to help you. Contact us at 410-258-3579 or 1-877-591-MOLD (6653). Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest!
Tags: Mold Remediation, Pets, Toxic Mold