We want to share this information after reading a story about a dog owner who came home to a very sick dog one day, so ill that she was sure the dog was near death. It was only after some clever detective work by her vet that they discovered that the dog’s symptoms were cause by her aromatherapy oil diffuser that had been on all day in the house.
Understanding Essential Oils
Essential oils, the aromatic substances derived from various plants, have gained popularity for their health benefits and aromatic qualities. They are used in diffusers, skin applications, and household products.
However, while these potent plant extracts might offer benefits for humans, they can pose significant risks to pets, particularly dogs.
Understanding which essential oils are harmful and why they are dangerous is crucial for pet owners who want to ensure the safety and well-being of their dogs.
Essential oils are concentrated liquids containing volatile aroma compounds from plants. These oils capture the plant's scent and flavour, or "essence," and are often used in aromatherapy, massage, and skincare.
Despite their natural origins, essential oils are potent and can have powerful effects on the body.
Dogs have a heightened sense of smell and a different metabolic process compared to humans. These differences mean that certain essential oils can be toxic to dogs, even in small quantities.
When inhaled, ingested, or applied to the skin, these oils can cause a range of adverse reactions, from mild irritation to severe poisoning.
Common Harmful Essential Oils
* Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca)
Tea tree oil is renowned for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. However, it is highly toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause severe reactions, including depression, lethargy, vomiting, and skin irritation. In more severe cases, it can lead to muscle tremors, coma, and death. The toxicity is due to compounds called terpenes, which dogs cannot metabolize effectively. This is the oil that was responsible for the sick dog mentioned above.
* Ylang Ylang Oil
Known for its sweet, floral scent, ylang ylang oil can cause respiratory distress in dogs if inhaled. It can also lead to skin irritation and gastrointestinal upset if ingested. In severe cases, it can cause coma and death.
* Pennyroyal Oil
Pennyroyal oil is sometimes used to repel insects, but it is highly toxic to dogs. Ingestion or skin exposure can cause liver damage, vomiting, and even seizures. The primary toxic component, pulegone, is particularly harmful to the liver and can lead to severe and irreversible damage.
* Wintergreen Oil
Wintergreen oil contains methyl salicylate, a compound similar to aspirin. In dogs, methyl salicylate can cause gastrointestinal upset, rapid breathing, and neurological issues. In large amounts, it can lead to salicylate poisoning, which can be fatal if not treated promptly.
* Pine Oils
Often used for their fresh scent, pine oils can cause significant irritation to a dog's skin and mucous membranes. Ingesting pine oil can lead to vomiting, lethargy, and central nervous system depression. Severe cases can result in kidney or liver damage. Pine oil is used in some cleaning products.
* Citrus Oils (Lemon, Orange, Lime)
Citrus oils are popular in cleaning products and diffusers. However, they contain compounds like limonene and linalool, which can be toxic to dogs. Exposure can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and photosensitivity. Ingesting large amounts can lead to liver damage.
Routes of Exposure and Symptoms
Dogs can be exposed to essential oils through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact. Each route of exposure can lead to different symptoms:
* Inhalation (diffusers the main risk to dogs):
Dogs have a much stronger sense of smell than humans, making them more susceptible to the effects of inhaled essential oils. Symptoms can include coughing, sneezing, difficulty breathing, and lethargy.
* Ingestion:
Dogs may ingest essential oils directly from bottles or indirectly by licking their fur after the oil has been applied. Symptoms of ingestion can include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and signs of liver or kidney damage.
* Skin Contact:
Direct application of essential oils to a dog's skin can cause irritation, redness, and burns. In some cases, the oils can be absorbed through the skin, leading to systemic toxicity.
Prevention and Treatment
Preventing exposure is the best way to protect dogs from the harmful effects of essential oils. Pet owners should store essential oils out of reach, avoid using diffusers in areas where dogs spend time, and never apply oils directly to a dog's skin or fur.
If exposure occurs, immediate action is essential. For skin contact, washing the affected area with mild soap and water can help reduce irritation. In cases of ingestion or inhalation, seeking veterinary care is crucial.
Veterinarians may induce vomiting, administer activated charcoal to limit absorption, or provide supportive care such as IV fluids and medications to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
By being vigilant and informed, pet owners can enjoy the benefits of essential oils without compromising their dogs' health and well-being.
Robin Logan,
RSHom