Skin decontamination in dogs: Procedures, precautions, and when to seek help
When a dog’s skin comes into contact with harmful substances, prompt decontamination is crucial to prevent further injury or systemic toxicity. Understanding the correct steps and knowing when to consult a veterinarian can make a significant difference in your dog’s recovery.
Common scenarios requiring skin decontamination
Dogs may need skin decontamination after exposure to:
- Chemical burns: Contact with strong acids, alkalis, or corrosive substances can cause severe tissue damage.
- Essential oils: Dermal exposure to certain essential oils can lead to irritation or systemic toxicity.
- Insecticides: Exposure to insecticides, such as carbamates or pyrethrins, can be harmful if absorbed through the skin.
Immediate steps for skin decontamination
- Flush the skin surface with large volumes of tepid or lukewarm water as soon as possible following exposure. Using cold water can lead to hypothermia, but using warm water can increase toxicity as it causes dilation of blood vessels in the skin and increases absorption.
- Substances like coal, tar, road oil, superglue or oil-based paint can be removed by bathing the affected areas with warm water and a mild hand dishwashing liquid.
- Do not use laundry detergents or machine dishwashing detergents.
- In some cases like sticky glue traps, clipping or shaving the affected areas/full body may be the best solution for decontamination.
- In general, oily or oil soluble agents can be washed out using mild dishwashing liquid. Dry substances like powder, dust or granules can be brushed out prior to bathing.
- If you have an Elizabethan collar, place this on your pet to ensure that toxins are not licked off the coat by the animal.
- In the case of any substance getting into the eyes, rinse copiously with tap water and seek veterinary attention immediately.
- Never leave an animal unattended in water during a decontamination procedure. Toxins may cause them to seizure or lose consciousness and drowning can occur.
- Never use solvents like turps, kerosene, acetone or paint thinner to remove substances from the skin/fur coat as this may cause more discomfort and/or pain.
When to seek veterinary care
Contact your veterinarian immediately if:
- The chemical involved is known to be highly toxic.
- Your dog shows signs of distress, pain, or systemic illness.
- There are visible ulcers, sores, or significant skin damage.
- You are uncertain about the appropriate decontamination steps.
Even after initial decontamination, a veterinary examination is essential to assess the extent of the injury and to initiate further treatment if necessary.
Concerned about skin contamination? Contact Lort Smith immediately
If your dog has been exposed to a harmful substance, prompt action is vital. Our experienced and compassionate team is here to help. Our North Melbourne Accident and Emergency department is open 365 days a year, no bookings required. If possible, we recommend calling to let us know you are on the way.
You can also call or book an appointment online for our North Melbourne or Campbellfield clinics.
Other information
Examples of situations requiring dermal decontamination include exposure to paint, glue traps, tar, superglue, Permethrin spot-on (insecticide), other pesticides, solvents, corrosives or some household cleaning products.
Never use solvents like turps, kerosene, acetone or paint thinner to remove substances from the skin/fur coat as this may cause more discomfort and/or pain.
Keep your dog dry and warm after bathing, as they may get hypothermia if they are cold.
References
Peterson ME (2013) Toxicologic Decontamination. In: Small Animal Toxicology. 3rd Ed. Peterson ME & Talcott PA (eds.). Missouri, USA: Elsevier Saunders
Bough MG (2003) Dermal Decontamination: Dealing with sticky situations. Veterinary Technician. 24(8):538-540
Muhammad F & Riviere JE (2007) Dermal toxicity. In: Veterinary Toxicology Basic and Clinical Principles. Gupta RC (ed). London. UK: Elsevier Inc. pp. 263-273