Dogs & Hand Sanitizer Poisoning
Hand sanitizer (ethanol alcohol) is common, especially since the Covid-19 pandemic. The levels of alcohol in hand sanitizers can be as high as 95% to kill as many disease-carrying germs as possible. Unfortunately, these high levels of alcohol can cause alcohol poisoning in your dog. Understanding the symptoms of hand sanitizer poisoning in dogs is crucial. These symptoms include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Changes in behavior
- Depression
- Coma
- Lethargy
- Heart attack
- Low blood sugar
- Seizures
- Tremors
- Vomiting
- Weakness
- Urinary incontinence
Do you suspect that your dog has ethanol poisoning? If so, you must contact your veterinarian immediately. If you were able to witness the ingestion of the poison, you would need to save this information for your vet. This information and a physical examination will help them reach a complete diagnosis. In addition, tests may be performed to rule out other disorders with the same symptoms.
Your veterinarian may prescribe medications for the treatment of hand sanitizer poisoning. Allow your dog access to fresh water, as alcohol poisoning usually depletes the body’s water. Dogs diagnosed with poisoning will need follow-up appointments to check their liver function. Please note that alcohol does not only exist in hand sanitizer. You must know other items such as air fresheners, disinfectants, mouthwash, spray paint, and insect repellent. Be proactive to prevent your dog from ingesting ethanol alcohol. Your four-legged friend should not be able to obtain things such as these
