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Dogs love the great outdoors. Their passion for running and exploring nature is healthy, too, giving them the fresh air and exercise they need to thrive. But always watch your pet while outside: things can go awry at a moment’s notice, especially if poison ivy grows nearby. Pet dermatology experts highly stress the importance of learning the basics of this dangerous plant and how to prevent exposure.

A Guide to Poison Ivy

Will It Hurt My Pet?

Your dog’s fur coat will most likely protect them from poison ivy. The plant is also mostly nontoxic, though it may cause mild stomach upset. The main issue with pets and poison ivy is that they can pass the poisonous oil produced by the plant, urushiol, onto their owners’ skin. A person’s recovery time could take anywhere from one to three weeks, depending on the severity of the rash, and the experience can be severely debilitating.

How Do I Protect My Pet & Myself From Poison Ivy?

pet dermatologyLearn what the plant looks like and find out where it tends to grow in your area. And always keep your dog on a leash while in public. If you suspect your pet has come into contact with poison ivy, put on a pair of gloves and carefully bathe them, preferably with an oatmeal-based pet shampoo. You’ll also need to wash your pet’s collar, leash, and all the clothes you wore at the time to prevent the oil from spreading further. It’s rare for pets to react to poison ivy, but if you’re concerned that yours has done so, call up your local pet dermatology clinic.

What Other Plants Should I Watch Out For?

It’s not just poison ivy; urushiol is also produced by poison oak and poison sumac, and different varieties of these plants grow across the continental United States. If you live in Ohio, the plants you’ll want to look out for most are Eastern poison ivy and poison sumac.

 

If you suspect your dog is suffering due to poison ivy contact, visit a pet dermatology center. Veterinary Dermatology Services serves Ohio, northern Kentucky, and southern Indiana. They’re the experts pet owners turn to when their furry friends require specialized treatment, such as ear infections, malignant and benign growths, and other skin conditions. To set up an appointment for your pet, call (513) 489-4644. More information is available online.

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