When we think of keeping our pets safe, we often focus on aspects such as nutrition, exercise, and veterinary care. But there’s an invisible danger in many of our homes that often goes overlooked: carbon monoxide (CO).
Every year, thousands of pets in the United States are exposed to carbon monoxide poisoning. To raise awareness, Kidde founded National Pet Carbon Monoxide Safety Day in 2020, observed each year on September 17. This day reminds us to check our homes, learn the signs of CO poisoning, and protect all family members—two- and four-legged alike.
What is Carbon Monoxide?
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas often called the “silent killer.” It’s created by any fuel-burning appliance, and because it can’t be seen or smelled, it can build up quickly and go unnoticed until it’s too late.
During power outages caused by winter storms or hurricanes, the risk increases when families turn to alternative heating or power sources such as portable generators or grills. In enclosed spaces like homes, garages, or campers, CO can reach dangerous levels that threaten both people and pets.
Common Sources of Carbon Monoxide in the Home
- Heaters
- Gas stoves and ovens
- Generators
- Grills
- Fires & chimneys
- Cars
Signs of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Pets
One of the scariest things about CO poisoning is that symptoms in pets can look like other illnesses. That’s why it’s important to recognize the signs and act quickly.
Early symptoms may include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Lethargy or unusual sleepiness
- Labored or difficult breathing
- Uncoordinated movement or staggering
Severe symptoms can include:
- Seizures
- Heart arrhythmia
- Coughing
- Deafness or blindness
- Coma
If you suspect CO poisoning, remove your pet (and yourself) from the area immediately and seek veterinary and medical help.
Detecting CO in Your Home
The best defense against carbon monoxide is a working CO alarm. Unlike smoke, which rises, carbon monoxide can travel anywhere in the home—even through drywall—so it’s critical to install more than one alarm.
✔️ Place CO alarms on each level of your home
✔️ Install near bedrooms, living areas, and hallways
✔️ Test alarms weekly and replace batteries as needed
✔️ Replace alarms every 10 years (check the back for the manufacturing date)
Plan Ahead for Your Pet’s Safety
Preparation can save lives in an emergency.
- Save your veterinarian’s contact information in your phone and somewhere accessible to your whole family.
- Make sure your pet’s microchip information is up to date in case you become separated.
Take Action This September 17
National Pet Carbon Monoxide Safety Day is a reminder to make sure your home is safe. A few simple steps—checking alarms, replacing outdated devices, and recognizing the symptoms—can make all the difference.
Your pets depend on you for protection. Let’s keep every family member safe from the dangers of carbon monoxide.
Our Commitment to Pet Safety
Since 1964, the Humane Society of Sheboygan County (HSSC) has been dedicated to its mission: to prevent cruelty to animals, relieve suffering among animals, and extend humane education. Sharing lifesaving information like carbon monoxide safety is one way we work to protect pets in our community—not just within our shelter walls, but in every home.
Together, we can make Sheboygan County a safer place for all animals. ❤️
🐾 Pet CO Safety Checklist
✔️ Install CO Alarms
- Place on every level of your home
- Near bedrooms, living areas, and hallways
- Replace alarms every 10 years
✔️ Test Weekly
- Push the test button
- Replace batteries as needed
✔️ Know the Sources
- Heaters, stoves, ovens
- Generators, grills, fireplaces, cars
✔️ Watch for Pet Symptoms
- Nausea, vomiting, lethargy
- Trouble breathing, staggering
- Seizures, coughing, collapse
✔️ Plan Ahead
- Save your veterinarian’s contact info in your phone
- Keep pet microchip info current
Protect every family member—two- and four-legged—from the silent killer.