After the Covid-19 pandemic, some pet owners are taking extra hygiene precautions to avoid contamination from their pets, among them using hand sanitizer to clean the paws, but the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns: hand sanitizer for paw cleaning can poison your dog.
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In an interview with Today, veterinarian Marty Becker explained that hand sanitizer is not only dangerous for your dog if they absorb the substance, but the disinfectant also dries out your pet’s paw pads. This leaves your pet more vulnerable to viral and bacterial infections, like leptospirosis. Furthermore, hand sanitizer can cause burns and make your dog’s paws more sensitive.
The greatest danger is the ingestion of chemicals, as dogs may lick their paws disinfected with hand sanitizer. Even a small amount of the product can cause gastrointestinal issues, such as vomiting and diarrhea. In large amounts, it can lead to death. Signs of poisoning include disorientation, slow movements, slow or panting breathing.
This does not mean that you should not sanitize your dog’s paws. After a walk outside, wash your pet’s paws with water and neutral soap, and make sure the product is well diluted. According to veterinarian Marty Becker, it’s a good idea to clean your pet daily, especially during the pandemic.
