Lavender is a much-appreciated ingredient in essential oil, which is used in a variety of ways. While lavender can make a room smell good or a person feel better, what happens if a dog licks lavender? Can lavender essential oil make a dog sick?
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Has your dog licked lavender oil? Are you worried the lavender oil will make your dog sick? If so, then you’ve come to the right place. We understand it can be scary when your dog does something like this.
In this article, we’ll take a look at lavender oil and whether or not it can make a dog sick. Let’s get started!
What is Lavender Oil?
First, lavender is an herb; its flower is used to make lavender essential oil. What’s interesting is that there are over 400 types of lavender species. Each one has its own scent and unique qualities. The oil and flowers are also used to make certain medicines.
Lavender oil is thought to have a sedating effect and relax muscles. It also has antibacterial and anti-fungal effects.
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Lavender has been used to ease stress & anxiety, cure insomnia, and is thought to ease certain types of pain. Lavender is also used to flavor drinks and foods. The scent is used in everything from oils and soaps to perfumes and potpourri.
While lavender appears safe for most humans (some may have an allergy to the plant/oil), what about dogs? What happens if a dog licks lavender oil?
Lavender Oil & Dogs
Lavender plants are thought to be non-toxic to dogs. For this reason, the plant is considered safe to use in gardens where dogs are allowed. However, lavender essential oil can be toxic to dogs. The oils may contain chemicals that are easily absorbed through the skin or the mucus membranes of the mouth. Some of these ingredients may be metabolized by the liver, which can result in liver disease.
If your dog happens to have one lick of lavender oil, and the amount is very small, chances are he will be OK. He may develop an upset stomach. For dogs that have a larger amount of lavender oil, it’s possible they could become more ill with the following symptoms.
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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Lavender Oil Poisoning in Dogs
You may notice these symptoms if your dog has licked lavender oil:
- Fragrance on his breath and around his mouth
- Difficulty breathing
- Difficulty walking
- Drooling
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Muscle tremors
- Weakness/lethargy
- Pawing at the mouth/face
- Redness/burns on the lips, gums, tongue, skin
If your dog shows any of these symptoms, then call the vet immediately. This could be an emergency.
Treatment of Lavender Oil Poisoning in Dogs
The vet may run blood tests on your dog to determine whether the liver and kidneys have been damaged. Then the vet may use IV fluids to rehydrate your dog, as well as provide medications for any symptoms your fur baby may be having.
The good news is that dogs who receive prompt medical care after licking lavender oil will go on to make a full recovery.
Kyoko
Kyoko is from a family of 3 and moved to New York with her parents and siblings when she was 13. Kyoko is fond of spending a great amount of time with pets, specifically her beagle Luna and cat Missy. Her boyfriend often complains that she spends too much time giving attention to their animals. Kyoko has written dozens of articles concerning pets and is aiming at owning a pet shop one day!
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