These days, many pet parents turn to aromatherapy to ease stress, create a positive environment, and to make their homes smell better. Aromatherapy comes in many forms and scents. The problem is that sometimes dogs are attracted to aromatherapy and may eat it! But what happens if a dog eats aromatherapy?
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Has your dog eaten aromatherapy? Are you worried the aromatherapy will make your dog sick? If so, you’ve come to the right place. We understand it can be scary when your dog eats something like this.
We’ve gathered information about aromatherapy and whether it can make a dog sick. Let’s get started!
What is Aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy can be a holistic treatment that’s used to promote health and wellbeing. It can be prescribed by a holistic healer; however, aromatherapy can also be bought over the counter at a wide range of stores.
Aromatherapy uses natural plant essential oils to heal and improve the wellbeing of your health, mind, and body. This form of therapy has been around for thousands of years. It was first practiced in ancient cultures such as China, India, Egypt, and other places. Ancient cultures used natural substances for physical and spiritual wellbeing.
Essential oils are used in aromatherapy, and these can be applied to:
- Diffusers
- Aromatic spritzers
- Inhalers
- Bathing salts
- Body oils/creams/lotions
- Household cleaning products
- And more
While essential oils are considered safe for humans (when used as directed), what about dogs? What happens if a dog eats aromatherapy?
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Ask a Vet Live NowAromatherapy & Dogs
Unfortunately, aromatherapy can be toxic to dogs. Only a small amount of aromatherapy, such as essential oils, is enough to poison a dog.
Symptoms of Aromatherapy Ingestion in Dogs
You may notice these symptoms if your dog has eaten aromatherapy:
- Smell of essential oils on breath, skin, or fur
- Difficulty breathing
- Difficulty walking
- Excessive drooling
- Lethargy
- Muscle tremors
- Pawing at mouth or face
- Redness on lips, gums, tongue, or skin
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, call the vet immediately. This is an emergency. Your dog needs to be treated by the vet ASAP.
Treatment of Aromatherapy Ingestion in Dogs
There is no antidote for aromatherapy ingestion, so the vet will have to focus on removing the poison from your dog’s system. They may do this by inducing vomiting and using activated charcoal. In addition, the vet may give your fur baby an IV with fluids. These treatments help to flush the toxin from your canine companion’s system.
In addition, depending on the type of aromatherapy eaten, the vet may need to treat your fur baby for chemical burns in the mouth or throat. They may also need to give your dog stomach protectants, liver protectants, and other medications. In some cases, your fur baby may need to be hospitalized until he’s in stable condition.
The prognosis is best for dogs who receive prompt medical treatment after eating aromatherapy. In the future, it’s best to keep all aromatherapy products out of your dog’s reach. You’ll both be happier for it!
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Kim
Kim is a talented author, who loves animals especially dogs. She engaged in writing books and articles relating to animals a decade ago. Kim resides in Chicago with her husband and son. The family is the proud owner of a dog and a parrot (Jack and Lily). Kim wanted more than these two pets, but her husband put his foot down... She often visits elementary schools to talk to the kids about what she learned about pets and how they could learn from them.
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