Will Hand Lotion hurt my dog? Get Your Pet Thinking

Lotions, Creams, and Body Washes

There are many types of lotions, creams, body washes and other sanitizing products pets may want to lick. Don’t be fooled into thinking they are innocuous just because you can purchase them without a prescription.

Many products intended for humans are not safe for pets and are certainly not meant to be ingested. Humans and canines are different species, and even though most topical over the counter creams and lotions will not cause your pets serious issues, some can. Discourage licking behavior to prevent any health problems from occurring.

Although some of these creams, such as steroid and triple-antibiotic ointments for example, may be recommended by your veterinarian to use on your dog, you must follow directions given by your veterinarian and again, discourage licking behavior by your cat and dog.

Treating a skin wound with a medication is quite different than ingesting it through the mucous membranes and stomach.

The FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine posted a warning1 about hand sanitizer:

Attention Pet Owners: Do not use hand sanitizer to clean your pets paws. It can cause poisoning if absorbed through the skin. Hand sanitizer products can make your dog sick if eaten.

Additionally, hand sanitizers may contain:

  • Ethanol which can lead to alcohol poisoning
  • Benzalkonium chloride which is can be found in alcohol-free products resulting in hypersalivation and ulcers of the lips and tongue
  • Triclosan which may cause antibiotic resistance, skin cancer and has been reported to alter hormone regulation in animals
  • Methanol which has been reported to cause severe problems in humans; it is highly toxic and although it hasn’t been studied in dogs yet, err on the side of caution
  • It is important to remember that what is not absorbed through the paw pads and belly skin, will be ingested when your pet grooms.

    If you have pets in the house at anytime, be sure to use pet-friendly agents for all your disinfecting needs.

    Can my Pet Lick my Lotion?

    In the midst of applying lotion or while slathering on sunscreen poolside, keep an eye out for your furry friend- he or she may come to have a taste!

    Wondering why your pooch or feline would want to lick these types of substances to begin with? Some dogs and cats seem to like the taste and smells of lotions and creams. Many are made with coconut, avocado and other enticing scents. However, many lotions contain medication, zinc, insect repellant and other ingredients dangerous for consumption by your pets.

    Can I put Vaseline on my dog?

    Is vaseline is toxic for dogs? Technically no, vaseline is not toxic to your dog. It is also usually not the best choice as your dog can lick it off their skin or paws. If your pup ingests enough they might get an upset stomach, which can lead to vomiting or diarrhea if they ingest enough.

    Human Medicated Lotion CAN Harm Your Pets – Animals Today Radio