After moving out of the suburbs, I found myself in a wooded region. It wasn't too long before I developed poison ivy. I brushed it off as bad luck.
As I have no habit of touching the strange plants that I encounter, I thought I was safe. I took my dog on her daily walk through the woods, unaware of all the poisonous plants we were walking in.
You know what happened, right? I got poison ivy. Three times, not once, twice or even three times, in the first two years.
It's pretty clear that I got poison Ivy from my dog. It turns out that poison ivy is not usually a problem for dogs, but oil from the venom can get onto our skin.
Is it possible to get poison ivy from your dog?
Is it possible to get poison ivy if your dog has it? Yes, urushiol that is on your dog's skin can transfer to you.
It is not possible to spread the rash that poison ivy can cause from your dog. However, any oil that your dog may have gotten on them could be contagious. In most people, a small amount of Urushoil can cause a reaction.
When exposed to 50 nanograms of urushiol – less than a grain of salt – 80 to 90% of adults develop a rash. – CDC
If you are out walking your dog, and you suspect that you have come across some poison ivy, the best thing to do is to wash him immediately. This will help you prevent a reaction. These oils can remain on his coat for a long time, and a small amount of it on your skin is enough to cause an allergic reaction.
How to prevent your dog from getting poison ivy
If you suspect that your dog may have come in contact with poison oak, avoid petting him and wash him as soon as possible. The faster the oil is removed, the greater the chance of avoiding an allergic reaction.
Wash your clothes and towels immediately after washing your pet to avoid any contact with any lingering oils.
How to prevent your dog from catching poison ivy by:
- Do not wash your pet for 24 hours after exposure.
- Wash the oil off multiple times
- You can wash your dog's collar and leash
- Wear long sleeves and rubber gloves to protect yourself from the oil.
- After bathing your dog, wash your clothes and towels to avoid further exposure
- Shower to remove any lingering oils from your skin
Can Dogs Get Poison Ivy?
The fur on dogs acts as a barrier to protect them from poison ivy. The rash is more likely to develop in short-haired or hairless dogs, as well as areas with less fur like the belly.
The hair coat of pets is somewhat protective and therefore less likely for them to get a rash. However, if they do, you should consult a veterinarian. – Dr. Kathryn Primm, Iheartdogs.com
Dogs with a Poison Ivy reaction can show certain symptoms
Dogs can have the same reaction to poison ivy as we do, but it may take up to one week for symptoms to appear. A poison ivy response in dogs is characterized by the following symptoms:
- Itching and scratching increases
- Licking increases
- Raised bumps that look like red blisters.
- Inflamed skin
- Open sores
As the oil spreads on your dog's skin, they will begin to develop a rash that looks like raised bumps. The skin will become red and extremely itchy.
The plant oils will sink into the skin of your dog, creating red bumps, which resemble pimples. These papules cause your pet to itch and redden his skin in a similar way to what humans experience. – Dr. Scott Perry, Care.com
If dogs ingest poison ivy, they can have a serious reaction. You should take your dog to the veterinarian if you suspect that he has eaten poison ivy.
Calamine lotion can be toxic for your pet. Consult your veterinarian if your dog shows signs of an itch or rash after coming into contact with poisonivy.
How to Identify Poison Ivy
It is found in most of America, except Hawaii and Alaska. It grows in wooded areas and open fields. It is also found on roadsides and in rural areas.
Poison Ivy has three-pointed leaves. However, this can differ depending on the species. Depending on the season, some plants have white or yellow flowers and others have green flowers. In the spring, leaves are usually green and in the fall they turn red.
How to Prevent Your Dog from Getting Poison ivy
Limiting your dog's exposure to poison ivy is the best way to avoid it. Do not leave your dog unattended if there is poison ivy on your property. If you are going to walk in the woods with your pet, keep him on a lead.
You can avoid poisonous plants while hiking with your dog if you know how to identify them. You can walk on the sidewalks and streets of your neighborhood if you are not familiar with plant identification.
The conclusion of the article is:
Do not be like me. You shouldn't assume you won't have poison ivy just because you don't touch every plant that you see. Your dog can carry poison ivy on his coat.
This oil can spread easily from your dog's clothing or skin. It's important to wash your dog and your clothes after a walk in the woods.