The very last thing you’d think a dog would eat was the dryer sheet! Has your dog eaten a dryer sheet? Are you wondering what to do? Then we’re glad you’re here! We’ve put together some information to help you right now.
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What is a Dryer Sheet?
Dryer sheets are those thin pieces of perfumed paper that we put into the dryer with clean clothes. They small good and may feel a little bit rough or waxy. Dryers sheets are made of synthetic fabrics, which are then filled with all types of chemicals to make clothes soft and smell good.
Can Dryer Sheets Harm My Dog?
Yes, they can. This is because of the synthetic materials used in the sheets. Chemicals that may be added to the dryer sheet may include benzalkonium chloride and cetrimonium bromide. These chemicals are known as cationic surfactants. These chemicals are also used in liquid fabric softeners. Unfortunately, these substances can be very toxic to dogs.
They can cause irritation of the skin, stomach lining, and more. The chemicals can also cause burns or ulcers. What’s more, some of these chemicals have been shown to cause damage to the central nervous system, depressions, lung damage, and much more.
Back to the dryer sheet, the fabric of the dryer sheet can also cause problems. If ingested, the dryer sheet can enter the dog’s stomach, where the sheet can soak up liquid there and in the dog’s digestive tract. If this happens, the danger is the dryer sheet will become lodged somewhere in the intestines. This can lead to a bowel obstruction, which can be a life-threatening medical condition.
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Ask a Vet Live NowMy Dog Ate a Dryer Sheet, What Should I Do?
If you believe your fur baby has swallowed a dryer sheet, then call the vet right now. This is a medical emergency.
Symptoms a Dog has Swallowed a Dryer Sheet
Here are the symptoms to watch for if your dog has swallowed a dryer sheet:
- Lethargy
- Loud breathing
- Cough
- Wheezing
- Drooling excessively
- Vomiting
- Swollen tongue
- Abdominal pain/swelling
- Vomiting diarrhea
Watch for these signs on your dog’s skin:
- Pain
- Redness
- Ulcers
- Swelling
- Burns
As you can see, something as innocent as a dryer sheet can be extremely dangerous for dogs. So, it’s always a good idea to keep dryer sheets and any other types of chemicals away from your dog. You and your fur baby will be much happier for it!
Connect with a verified veterinarian in minutes. Licensed vets are available 24/7 to answer your questions. No need to worry about your furry family member.
Tom
Tom has always loved to write since he was little - he wanted to be either a writer or a veterinary doctor, but he ended up being a professional writer while most of his works are based on animals. He was born in San Francisco but later moved to Texas to continue his job as a writer. He graduated from the University of San Francisco where he studied biotechnology. He is happily married and a soon to be father!
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