National Pet Carbon Monoxide (CO) Safety Day

History of National Pet Carbon Monoxide (CO) Safety Day

Since they first learned to handle fire in the year 800,000 B.C., humans have had a complicated relationship with carbon monoxide. The first scientific examination into carbon monoxide poisoning from coal was conducted in 1716, even though Aristotle had already documented the deadly vapors produced when coals were burned. The makeup of the gas was determined through a series of studies until 1800 when scientist William Cruickshank classified it as a composite of carbon and oxygen.

While carbon monoxide was first recognized as a valuable reagent in the early 1900s, it has since gained a reputation as the most common form of air poisoning in a variety of countries. Carbon monoxide poisoning is a leading cause of emergency room visits in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Research has found that carbon monoxide poisoning kills animals at a rate twice that of humans. Mice and canaries, which have a very low tolerance for carbon monoxide, were used by miners in 1911 to detect harmful amounts of CO in the mine. Even though several ways to treat CO poisoning were developed in the 20th century, the fact that this gas is both colorless and odorless makes it hard to spot and has given it the nickname ‘silent killer.’

When Kidde, a renowned maker of residential smoke alarms and other safety devices, conducted a survey in the U.S. and Canada, it discovered that many pet owners were unaware of the dangers of carbon monoxide. This prompted the organization to develop a day to raise awareness about the hazards and devastating effects of CO on humans and animals.

National Pet Carbon Monoxide (CO) Safety Day timeline

1716

The First Scientific Examination

Scientists conduct experiments to investigate carbon monoxide poisoning.

1800

The Identification of a Fatal Gas

The composite elements of carbon monoxide are identified.

20th Century

The Animal Studies

Miners discover that animals have a lower tolerance for carbon monoxide.

2020

The Survey Among Pet Owners

The Harris Poll conducts an online survey among over 1,000 pet owners in the U.S. and Canada.

National Pet Carbon Monoxide (CO) Safety Day FAQs

When is National Pet Carbon Monoxide (CO) Safety Day?

National Pet Carbon Monoxide (CO) Safety Day 2026 is observed on Thursday, September 17. This annual observance is a crucial reminder to prioritize the safety of our furry companions from the silent killer.

How does carbon monoxide affect pets?

Carbon monoxide poisoning affects pets similarly to humans, but their smaller size and faster metabolism can make them more susceptible and show symptoms earlier. Common signs in 2026 include lethargy, weakness, vomiting, difficulty breathing, and a cherry-red color to their gums or skin.

How common is carbon monoxide poisoning in pets?

While exact statistics are hard to pinpoint, carbon monoxide poisoning in pets is more common than many owners realize, often occurring alongside human exposures. It’s estimated that thousands of pets are affected annually, with many cases going undiagnosed or attributed to other causes.

What is the best way to prevent CO poisoning in pets?

The most effective prevention strategy for 2026 is installing and regularly testing carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas and attached garages. Ensure appliances are well-maintained and never leave vehicles running in an enclosed space.

How to Observe National Pet Carbon Monoxide (CO) Safety Day

Install a carbon monoxide detector

Get a carbon monoxide detector for your home. This way you don’t have to worry about accidental exposure and you can ensure that your family and pets stay safe.

Learn about the dangers of this gas

Educate yourself and your family about the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning and how to stay safe. Teaching children about these gases early also ensures the next generation has the chance to adopt healthier practices.

Create awareness

Spread the word on National Pet Carbon Monoxide (CO) Safety Day on social media. Use appropriate hashtags and share useful information to raise awareness of the dangers of indiscriminate gas use.

5 Interesting Facts About Gases

Natural Gas was discovered in the Middle East

Natural gas is considered to have been found between 6000 and 2000 B.C. in the Middle East when lightning strikes ignited natural gas oozing from the ground.

China built the first gas pipelines

The earliest pipes were constructed in China in approximately 500 B.C., and they were made of bamboo.

Natural gas is both dry and wet

While wet natural gas is favored in the manufacture of products and polymers, dry natural gas is widely used in heating and cooling systems.

Natural gas is essential in numerous fields

From vinyl flooring, carpets, and piping to Aspirin, artificial limbs, and heart valves to sunglasses, deodorants, and cell phones; natural gas is used in a wide range of common products.

The largest gas reserve is in China

China has nearly double the resources of the U.S. in terms of estimated recoverable shale gas resources.

Why National Pet Carbon Monoxide (CO) Safety Day is Important

The day gives us an opportunity to raise awareness

Every year, people and animals are injured or killed by carbon monoxide poisoning. With awareness of this potentially harmful gas, these incidents can be greatly reduced.

It’s a day to check all your gas appliances

What better day to have your furnaces and other gas-powered appliances serviced. Contact qualified professionals to come and determine the safety of your appliances.

It’s a reminder to install gas detectors

Carbon monoxide detectors can detect dangerous levels of this gas in your home. This would provide a warning before the gas harmful levels, and in effect save lives.