The metabolic pathways of dogs differ from humans so toxic substances have higher difficulty breaking down within dogs. The liver of dogs does not perform effective filtering of dangerous substances because of which they remain more susceptible to harm. Fragrances which humans find pleasant might prove both distressing and dangerous to puppy and adult canine bodies. Prolonged contact with essential oils develops into liver disease and additional health issues.
Routes of Exposure
Both inhalation and direct contact with essential oils usually occur in various ways to dogs. Oil particles move freely into the air through the process of inhalation as people use diffusers for dispersal. Respiratory distress becomes an increased danger for small dogs when they come into contact with essential oils. The application of essential oils on the skin produces another safety risk because their substance passes through the bloodstream to trigger adverse reactions. The process of ingestion occurs as oils collect on surfaces until dogs either intentionally or unintentionally use their tongues to interact with their fur and eat the substances. Selective poisonings affect dogs regardless of exposed quantities.
Essential Oils That Are Toxic to Dogs
Dogs are susceptible to toxic essential oils with cinnamon and citrus among them as well as d-limonene and pennyroyal and peppermint together with pine and sweet birch and tea tree (melaleuca) and wintergreen and ylang-ylang and anise and clove and thyme and juniper and yarrow and garlic in this category. The oils can result in poisoning symptoms thus pet owners should always store these products safely.
Symptoms of Essential Oil Poisoning in Dogs
If poisoning occurs dogs will display a strong scent on the surface of their fur or in their breath combined with difficulty breathing, excessive drooling and lethargy and weakness and uncoordinated stumbling. The poisoning signs in dogs include muscle tremors as well as paw movements toward their face along with tongue redness and burns on the lips gums and tongue with periodic vomiting. Address the situation right away whenever your dog displays the mentioned symptoms.
What to Do If Your Dog Shows Symptoms
Shift your dog to a fresh air location which is well ventilated. Wash the skin area that presents oil exposure with a gentle dish soap diluted with water. Induced vomiting is harmful because it could create more significant harm to your dog. Instead, seek veterinary help immediately. Call your veterinarian and a pet poison helpline along with having the substance ingredients available for proper treatment analysis. How to Keep Your Dog Safe Prevent poisoning through complete avoidance of dangerous oils in areas open to your dog. Securely locked cabinets must contain oils which are out of the reach of household pets. Commissioning veterinarians is mandatory before applying oils to pets and their fur. Powered household disinfectants should be checked for dangerous oils before choosing pet-safe cleaning alternatives. Consult with experts before applying natural essential oils in your household environments.
