A severe benzocaine side effect for dogs
When dogs are treated with human-grade benzocaine, it increases their risk of developing a serious blood disease called methemoglobinemia, a kind of anemia. This rare condition dramatically reduces the amount of oxygen carried through the blood. This is life-threatening and could result in death. Dogs with methemoglobinemia may require hospitalized care that includes oxygen supplementation and a blood transfusion.
One sign of the condition is that blood turns a brownish color, indicating that far too little oxygen is circulating. You cant see your dogs blood, but you can check the gums. Its possible they may be brown or blue instead of the usual pink color. Weakness, rapid breathing, and vomiting are also signs of methemoglobinemia. In addition to being exposed to toxic amounts of benzocaine, dogs can develop the condition if they ingest too much acetaminophen, which is the active ingredient in Tylenol.
Methemoglobinemia is not just a concern for dogs. In 2018, the U.S Food and Drug Administration warned that oral drug products containing benzocaine should not be used to treat infants and children younger than 2 years of age because of the risk of methemoglobinemia.
How much benzocaine is dangerous for dogs
Because benzocaine is meant to be used topically, it can be toxic if a dog eats a product containing the drug. Generally, when applied to the skin or gums, a small amount of the drug is absorbed. By ingesting a tube of it, your dog may be exposed to a dangerous amount. Store it in an area inaccessible to your dog, such as a high cupboard or medicine cabinet.
It is also important to keep your dog from licking areas where benzocaine was applied as much as possible. An Elizabethan collar can help keep them from accessing the area treated with benzocaine.
How can you tell if a dog’s teeth hurt?
Signs Your Dog is Experiencing Oral Pain
Drooling. Whimpering. Halitosis (bad breath) Change in behavior or displaying protective behavior.