Are Essential Oils Safe For Dogs?
No essential oil is truly safe for pets because they are toxic when consumed in large quantities. However, some essential oils are safer for pets than others, but it all depends on how they’re used. For example, lavender is a relatively safe essential oil for dogs, especially when in a diffuser where the dog can’t get to it.
Of course, you should never put any essential oils directly on your dog’s skin because they’re highly concentrated and can cause painful sores and even burns. Any pet products that contain essential oils are diluted, so they may be safe for your pet, but there’s no reason to risk their health and safety for products when there are safer alternatives.
What essential oils are bad for dogs? Essential oils toxic to dogs include:
Never, under any circumstances, should you use these on or around your dog because they’re toxic. While a diffuser is typically one of the safer ways to use essential oils around pets, avoid using those listed here to err on the side of caution. Of course, this is not a complete list of dangerous essential oils for pets. Always do your research and talk to a vet about essential oils before using them for your pet or around your home.
Even if an essential oil is unlikely to cause severe reactions in pets, it’s best to avoid using them directly on your pet to prevent skin irritation. Additionally, some pets may be more sensitive to essential oils than others, so the fragrance can be overpowering, making it difficult for them to breathe.
Signs Of Essential Oil Poisoning In Pets
Essential oils can be absorbed through the skin and metabolized in the liver, so dogs with liver disease may be more sensitive to them. While exposure to any essential oils can cause mild GI issues like vomiting and diarrhea, some oils can be fatal, including tea tree oil, which affects the nervous system. Essential oil poisoning in pets occurs when the oil is absorbed by the skin or ingested by the pet. It can happen accidentally or when a pet parent unknowingly applies it to the skin. Symptoms of essential oil poisoning include:
Can Peppermint Oil Be Used for Fleas on Dogs?
Peppermint oil is commonly used in natural flea repelling formulas for dogs due to its insect repelling properties. However, peppermint oil is not strong enough to kill or prevent a flea infestation by itself.
There are brands that utilize natural flea remedies that are effective and safe for your pets. These include Kin + Kind Flea and Tick Repel Spray and Project Sudz Shampoo Bar.