Arielle Cruz
Hand sanitizers have become an essential item in every household, especially with the recent COVID-19 pandemic. However, while they are effective in killing disease-causing germs, they can be harmful to dogs due to their high alcohol content, which can cause poisoning if ingested or absorbed through the skin. This has raised concerns among pet owners about the safety of using alcohol-based hand sanitizers on their dog's skin.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Safe for dog's skin | No |
| Safe if ingested | No |
| Poisoning symptoms | Drowsiness, lack of coordination, unconsciousness, behaviour changes, depression, low blood sugar, stomach upset, difficulty breathing |
| Poisoning treatment | Induce vomiting, administer activated charcoal, supportive care (oxygen, medication for tremors, anti-vomiting medication, IV fluids) |
| Safe for paws | No |
| Alternative to hand sanitiser for paws | Running or sprayed water and a mild detergent, or baby/pet shampoo |
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What You'll Learn
Hand sanitiser can cause alcohol poisoning in dogs if ingested
Hand sanitiser can be dangerous to dogs if ingested. The most common ingredient in hand sanitiser is ethanol alcohol, which is the same ingredient found in beer, wine, and liquor. Ethanol alcohol is toxic to dogs, and hand sanitisers can contain as much as 95% alcohol. This high level of alcohol can cause alcohol poisoning in dogs, leading to serious health consequences or even death.
Dogs are much more susceptible to the toxic effects of ethanol than humans. If a dog ingests hand sanitiser, they may experience symptoms such as drowsiness, lack of coordination, or unconsciousness. In some cases, breathing difficulties, seizures, and death can occur. Therefore, it is crucial to keep hand sanitisers out of reach of dogs and to seek immediate veterinary assistance if ingestion is suspected.
The risk of poisoning is not limited to ingestion. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and veterinarians advise against using hand sanitiser to clean a dog's paws, as it can be dangerous due to its drying effects. Hand sanitiser can cause the footpads to dry out and crack, leading to pain and potential infection. Instead, it is recommended to use diluted soapy water or disinfectant wipes to clean a dog's paws.
To keep dogs safe, it is essential to store hand sanitisers and other toxic substances in high or locked areas that are inaccessible to dogs. Additionally, it is advised to wait for the hand sanitiser to dry completely before petting or snuggling with a dog, as the misconception that hand sanitiser can poison a dog through touch has been proven false.
If a dog ingests hand sanitiser, it is important to remain calm and take immediate action. Contact a veterinarian or emergency veterinary clinic right away. They will likely ask about the type of hand sanitiser, its ingredients, and the amount ingested. In some cases, they may recommend inducing vomiting at home, followed by the administration of activated charcoal. Quick action is crucial, as acute cases of alcohol poisoning can be fatal.
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Hand sanitiser can be toxic to dogs if absorbed through the skin
Hand sanitisers are typically made with ethanol alcohol, which is the same type of alcohol found in beer, wine, and liquor. Ethanol alcohol can be dangerous for dogs to ingest, with toxic effects occurring even through skin absorption. The high levels of alcohol in hand sanitisers, ranging from 60% to 95%, can cause alcohol poisoning in dogs, leading to severe health consequences or even death.
Symptoms of alcohol poisoning in dogs include drowsiness, lack of coordination, and unconsciousness. If you suspect your dog has ingested hand sanitiser, it is imperative to contact your veterinarian immediately. They will likely ask about the type of hand sanitiser, its ingredients, and the amount consumed. Depending on these factors, they may suggest bringing your dog to the clinic for treatment.
To keep your dog safe, avoid using hand sanitiser directly on their paws or skin. Instead, opt for cleaning methods such as diluted soapy water or pet shampoo. Additionally, keep hand sanitisers and other toxic substances out of your dog's reach to prevent accidental ingestion.
While it is important to maintain good hygiene, always prioritise the safety and well-being of your furry friends. By taking preventive measures and seeking prompt veterinary assistance, you can protect your dogs from the potential dangers of hand sanitiser exposure.
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Hand sanitiser should not be used to clean dogs' paws
Hand sanitiser products can also make dogs sick if eaten. The most common ingredient found in hand sanitiser is ethanol alcohol, which can be dangerous for dogs to ingest. Hand sanitiser can contain up to 95% alcohol, which can cause alcohol poisoning in dogs. Alcohol poisoning can lead to breathing difficulties, seizures, and even death.
If you are concerned that your dog may have ingested hand sanitiser, contact your veterinarian immediately. They will likely ask about the type of hand sanitiser, the ingredients, and the amount ingested. Depending on these answers, they may suggest bringing your dog to the clinic.
Instead of hand sanitiser, it is recommended to use running or sprayed water with a mild detergent or pet shampoo to clean your dog's paws. This will effectively remove debris and disease-causing agents without harming your dog's health.
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Sanitiser wipes are safer than hand sanitiser for dogs to ingest
Hand sanitiser is not safe for dogs to ingest. The most common ingredient found in hand sanitiser is ethanol alcohol, which can be dangerous for dogs. Hand sanitiser may contain 60% to 95% ethanol by volume. If ingested, hand sanitiser can cause alcohol poisoning in dogs.
Sanitiser wipes, on the other hand, are generally safer for dogs to ingest than hand sanitiser. Sanitiser wipes typically contain about 67% alcohol, which is a lower concentration than hand sanitiser. While ingesting sanitiser wipes can still deliver a large dose of alcohol, the risk of poisoning is lower compared to liquid hand sanitiser. Wipes also reduce the risk of accidental ingestion by dogs, as they do not have the same appealing scents and colours as hand sanitiser gels and liquids.
However, it is important to note that not all sanitiser wipes are safe for dogs. Some wipes contain harsh chemicals, such as bleach and other toxic ingredients, that can be harmful to dogs if ingested. Therefore, it is crucial to choose pet-safe wipes that are hypoallergenic, odourless, and made with natural ingredients.
To minimise the risk of ingestion, it is recommended to keep hand sanitiser and sanitiser wipes out of the reach of dogs. Additionally, pet owners should ensure their hands are dry after using hand sanitiser before touching their dogs, as the transfer of sanitiser residue can be harmful to dogs.
In summary, while sanitiser wipes are generally safer than hand sanitiser for dogs to ingest, it is important to use pet-safe wipes and always take precautions to prevent accidental ingestion by curious dogs.
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Hand sanitiser should be kept out of reach of dogs
Hand sanitiser can also be harmful to dogs' skin and paws. Applying hand sanitiser to a dog's paws can cause severe drying of the skin, leading to painful cracks, burns, infection, and sloughing of the skin. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and veterinarian Dr Marty Becker advise against using hand sanitiser to clean a dog's paws due to its drying effects.
To keep dogs safe, it is important to store hand sanitiser in secure locations that are inaccessible to dogs. This could include moving hand sanitiser to high or locked areas. Additionally, it is recommended to wait for your hands to dry completely, around 30 seconds, before interacting with your dog after using hand sanitiser.
If you suspect that your dog has ingested hand sanitiser, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately. They will likely ask about the type of hand sanitiser, ingredients, and the amount ingested. Depending on these factors, they may suggest bringing your dog to the clinic for further treatment.
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Frequently asked questions
No, it is not safe to use alcohol-based hand sanitizer on your dog's skin. The FDA and veterinarians advise against using hand sanitizer to clean your dog's paws as it can dry out their footpads and lead to painful cracks.
You can use disinfectant wipes, diluted soapy water, or a mild detergent to clean your dog's paws.
If your dog licks hand sanitizer, contact your veterinarian immediately. Hand sanitizer contains dangerously high levels of ethanol alcohol and can cause alcohol poisoning.
Symptoms of alcohol poisoning in dogs include drowsiness, lack of coordination, and unconsciousness.
It is generally safe to touch your dog after using hand sanitizer. However, it is recommended to wait for your hands to dry completely before doing so to avoid the risk of your dog ingesting the hand sanitizer.
