Ozone Machines Pose Serious Health Risks to Pets and People, Experts Warn

Ozone-generating machines, often marketed as air purifiers or odor eliminators, can cause rapid and severe respiratory distress in both animals and humans when used improperly. A recent incident in Clay County underscores these dangers: On the afternoon of April 21, K-9 “Luca,” a 7-year-old drug-detection dog assigned to Investigator Steven Smith, was accidentally exposed to an ozone machine that had been inadvertently turned on while he was crated inside the Clay County Sheriff’s Office Investigative Unit building. Luca was found minutes later in severe respiratory distress and vomiting.

He was rushed to Big Bear Veterinary Clinic in Hayesville for immediate stabilization by Dr. Kayla Lawlor and her staff, then sedated and transported via Erlanger Life Force Helicopter to the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine in Knoxville—the first such specialized K-9 medical airlift under a new program, provided at no cost to the county. Luca was able to return home on Thursday, April 23rd.

While ozone machines are sometimes used in unoccupied spaces for mold remediation, smoke odor removal after fires, or deep cleaning, health authorities strongly caution against their use in areas where people or animals are present—or could accidentally be exposed.

How Ozone Affects the Body

Ozone (O₃) is a highly reactive gas and powerful oxidant. The same properties that allow it to break down odors and kill bacteria also enable it to damage living tissue, particularly the delicate lining of the lungs and respiratory tract. When inhaled, even relatively low concentrations can trigger inflammation and oxidative stress.

Common symptoms in humans include:

• Throat and nose irritation

• Coughing and chest pain

• Shortness of breath

• Worsening of asthma or other chronic respiratory conditions

• Reduced ability to fight respiratory infections

Vulnerable groups—children, the elderly, individuals with asthma or COPD, and those with compromised immune systems—face heightened risks. Prolonged or repeated exposure may lead to permanent lung damage.

In animals, particularly dogs and other pets, the effects can be equally rapid and severe:

• Respiratory distress (rapid or labored breathing, extended neck posture)

• Vomiting, drooling, and shaking

• Coughing, wheezing, or lethargy

• Eye and nasal irritation

Dogs, with their sensitive respiratory systems, can show signs of distress quickly, as seen in Luca’s case. Birds and small mammals are often even more susceptible. Studies on various animal species, including dogs, have shown that ozone exposure can shorten breathing cycles, increase respiratory rate, and impair lung function.

Official Warnings from Health Authorities

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that ozone generators sold as air cleaners are not recommended for occupied spaces. The agency notes that these devices often produce ozone levels far exceeding safe limits, even when manufacturers’ instructions are followed. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) explicitly advises against using ozone generators where people or animals are present, calling them ineffective for general air cleaning and hazardous due to the health risks.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) limits ozone output for devices marketed with medical claims to just 0.05 parts per million—levels that many consumer ozone machines easily surpass in real-world use.

Important safety note: Ozone has a relatively short half-life (around 20–30 minutes in still air), but high concentrations require thorough ventilation before re-entry. However, accidental activation or poor timing can lead to dangerous exposures, especially for crated animals or sleeping family members.

Safer Alternatives for Indoor Air Quality

Instead of ozone machines, experts recommend proven, ozone-free methods to improve air quality:

• HEPA air purifiers with activated carbon filters (effective at removing particles, allergens, odors, and VOCs without producing harmful byproducts)

• Regular ventilation and exhaust fans

• Source control (removing the cause of odors or pollutants)

• Houseplants (in moderation) and proper humidity control

These mechanical filtration options clean the air effectively while remaining safe for continuous use around pets and people.

A Cautionary Tale for Pet Owners and Agencies

The incident involving K-9 Luca serves as a stark reminder: even trained professionals in secure facilities can experience accidental exposures with serious consequences. Law enforcement agencies, veterinarians, and homeowners using ozone devices for “deep cleaning” should ensure strict protocols—no people or animals present, clear timers or auto-shutoffs, and ample ventilation afterward.

If you suspect ozone exposure in your pet or family member, remove them from the area immediately, provide fresh air, and seek veterinary or medical attention right away. Symptoms like difficulty breathing, coughing, or vomiting warrant prompt care.

Ozone has legitimate industrial and remediation uses when properly controlled and unoccupied spaces are involved. In homes, offices, or kennels, however, the risks far outweigh any perceived benefits for routine air purification.