The primary reason that Becker and other experts — including those at the FDA — agree hand sanitizer is potentially harmful as a cleaning agent on paws is because of its drying effects. As an alcohol-based product containing up to 95% alcohol, applying a hand sanitizer can actually be “strong enough to slough their foot pads,” Becker said.
The other concern is that ingesting hand sanitizer can be especially harmful for pets. However, Becker says that due to the bitterness of the solution, dogs and other pets would likely be reviled by the taste after a single lick. Even ingesting that small amount can cause digestive issues including vomiting and diarrhea, Becker noted.
A new warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suggests that pet owners are using the solution to clean their dogs’ paws.
Mask, hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes. This has become the new checklist for whenever people leave the house in the time of coronavirus. Recently however, an ever-expanding list of almost 90 hand sanitizers have come under scrutiny for containing methanol, a type of wood alcohol that can be toxic when absorbed through the skin. But its not just the type of hand sanitizer were using, its also how were using it thats under scrutiny.
“If you really thought about what was on your dogs feet, itd probably freak you out because theyre walking through their own feces, animal feces, stuff thats on the sidewalk in the city,” Becker said. “I like people to clean their pets paws at least two to three times a week. If youre walking them in a place thats really dirty, it doesnt hurt to wash, to clean them every day.”
Dog Hygiene Basics
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Let’s start with the good news. According to Texas veterinarian Dr. Sara Ochoa,there’s no need to use any PPE on your dog. There’s no evidence of dogs spreading or getting sick from COVID, so you don’t have to put a face mask or paw coverings on your dog.
That said, as we’ve already learned, dogs can carry germs that make people sick, and Dr. Ochoa says that it’s not a bad idea to wash your pet’s paws after a walk. After all, you wash your own hands after they get dirty. Why wouldn’t you do the same for your dog?
Unfortunately, Dr. Ochoa also says that people often make the mistake of using cleaning products that are toxic for dogs. Some of the most common products people use are ordinary disinfectant wipes, which can cause inflammation and pain.
So, what should you use to clean your dog?
“A gentle baby shampoo and water will do the trick,” Dr. Ochoa says. “Just like hand-washing protocol for people, wash your pet’s paws for 20 seconds before rinsing off.”
If there’s any itching or dryness, a dab of coconut oil can clear things up.
As for frequency, Dr. Ochoa recommends bathing your dog about once a month. This can vary widely depending on breed, though. Some dogs should be bathed frequently, while others should rarely, if ever be bathed. If you’re not sure, ask your veterinarian what’s best for your particular dog.
Is hydrogen peroxide safe for dogs?
DO NOT use soaps, shampoos, rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, herbal preparations, tea tree oil, or any other product to clean an open wound, unless specifically instructed to do so by your veterinarian. Some of these products are toxic if taken internally, while others can actually delay healing.
How to Make Sanitizing Paw Wipes for Dogs
These safe, easy to use antibacterial dog wipes are formulated with chamomile to reduce skin irritation and soothe delicate areas like paws and dog butts. This variety of dog wipes antibacterial comes in a fresh Tropical Splash scent, leaving behind just a hint of a great smell that everyone can enjoy.