Someone recently mentioned using petroleum jelly on their dog’s paw pads on our Facebook wall. We jotted down in our heads, “Write an article about why petroleum jelly shouldn’t be used on your dog’s nose or paw pads”!
I was at the doctor for my yearly checkup when I was reminded that I needed to write this post. I had a very recent wound on my hand. The physician advised washing it with soap and water or a solution of diluted vinegar, then covering it with Vaseline. The general plan was to clean it and seal it off to prevent infection from germs. On a wound that isn’t infected, there’s no need to apply an antibacterial cream.
Because I didn’t want to use petroleum products on my skin, I cleaned it with 4-Legger dog shampoo, which has natural antibacterial properties thanks to the lemongrass, and then covered it with 4-Leggers Healing Balm. My wound was healed in a few days. Because they are made with human-grade ingredients that are secure, non-toxic, and efficient, we 2-Leggers do utilize our 4-Legger products frequently.
Robert Cheesburg entered his laboratory in 1859 with “rod wax,” a substance thought to be responsible for the failure of the nation’s first oil rigs, and worked on a method to further refine it. In 1872, Chesebroughpatented the process of making petroleum jelly U. S. Patent 127,568. The procedure involved vacuum distilling the crude oil substance, then filtering the still residue through bone char. Cheesburgs company was . Vaseline!.
Vaseline does thoroughly refine and purify its petroleum jelly, removing the potentially cancer-causing impurities that are present in many other petroleum jelly products.
Is vaseline is toxic for dogs?
Technically no, vaseline is not toxic to your dog. Additionally, it’s typically not the best option because your dog might lick it off their paws or skin. If your dog consumes enough, they may experience stomach upset, which could cause them to vomit or have diarrhea.
Vaseline may feel soothing, but there is no proof that it actually works. Additionally, your best bet is to see your veterinarian if your dog has a rash or skin irritation to get a diagnosis and the right treatment for whatever the problem is. You don’t want to mistakenly believe your dog has dry skin when they actually have an allergic reaction or dermatitis that needs to be treated with medication. Your veterinarian can conduct the necessary examinations and tests to ensure that you fully understand your dog’s condition and the best course of action for treating it.
Vaseline is therefore probably not your best option in any situation, even though it won’t harm your dog in small amounts. It won’t matter if your dog licks you while you’re using it on your own skin.
As previously mentioned, vaseline is not the best choice for treating your dog. Vaseline use may have some additional risks in addition to the potential for stomach issues.
It’s critical to keep in mind that vaseline is a product with a petroleum base. Like mineral oil, it is a byproduct of oil refining. Even though this might seem a little frightening on its own, keep in mind that it is purified before being placed on the shelves of pharmacies.
According to dermatologist Dr. Alan Dattner, the founder of HolisticDermatology.com, the components of oil removed during the making of petroleum jelly are, in some cases, cancer-causing. While Vaseline itself, is highly refined and purified and classified as non – carcinogenic, the same is not known about all other brands. Dr. Dattner states: “Vaseline supposedly has all of these compounds removed, but there are probably plenty of imitators and one doesn’t know the extent that they’re removed.” All of this is a long way of saying you should do your research before putting any petroleum-based products on your (or your pet’s) skin. If you cant verify that a product is non-carcinogenic, it is best to skip purchasing it.
What Household Products Are Toxic To Dogs?
You’ll probably need to spray your home with pesticide occasionally, whether it’s to get rid of ants in the kitchen, mice in the basement, or hornets in the attic, but the majority of pesticides can be extremely toxic to dogs or any other pets that decide to investigate them. When it comes to pest control, be cautious and try to stick to organic or all-natural options. If you’re not using them right away, keeping them away from your home might be the safest course of action.
When to Take Your Dog to the Vet
Veterinary care should be sought instead of self-care for these kinds of wounds:
Even small wounds should be treated right away to prevent infection from spreading. If you wait too long, the infection may spread, necessitating the prescription of antibiotics by your veterinarian to stop the infection from getting worse.
Make an appointment with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about the seriousness of your pet’s injury. Additionally, only attempt home wound care if you are certain that a pet won’t react negatively to the procedure.
Employ a helper to assist with restraint, and if necessary, use a muzzle.
FAQ
What can you put on a dog’s wounds?
Apply a non-stinging antiseptic solution to the area. Chlorhexidine is cheap, extremely effective, and readily available. Although 4% solutions are also frequently used, a 2% solution minimizes tissue irritability. Povidone-iodine solution is another good option.
Is Vaseline toxic for dogs?
Vaseline is technically not toxic to your dog, so that’s a no-go. Additionally, it’s typically not the best option because your dog might lick it off their paws or skin. If your dog consumes enough, they may experience stomach upset, which could cause them to vomit or have diarrhea.
Can I put Vaseline on my dog’s raw skin?
Yes, we do! Paw balms like Paw Soother or Musher’s Secret are recommended, but petroleum jelly will do in a pinch.
What home remedy is good for dog wounds?
Home remedy for cuts, scrapes, and abrasions Combine one pint of water with half a teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of calendula tincture. Soak an injured paw in the solution. Apply the solution gently to the injured area using a large syringe or squirt bottle if the wound is on the body.