That’s right—it’s not just you who benefits from kicking the habit. Scientists now know it can help your dogs, cats and birds live longer, too. The link? The carcinogens in your second-hand smoke. Not only does it do damage to their lungs when they breathe it in, but it also coats fur, which is then licked off while grooming, and it accumulates on the mucus membranes of their nose. All this increases your pet’s risk of oral cancer, lung cancer, cancer of the nose and sinus and malignant lymphoma. The good news? Having a pet makes it easier to quit smoking, since studies show they reduce stress and anxiety.
[photo: blackangel]
