The last thing you expected was for your pup to help himself to that open Vaseline jar. But he did. Now what?
Should you be worried if your canine companion ingests Vaseline?It depends on how much he consumed.Taking a lick probably won’t hurt, but eating a sizeable portion can cause digestive problems.When in doubt, consult your veterinarian.
You mayalso be wondering why your dog ate petroleum jellyin the first place and whether it’s OKto put iton your dog’s skin and paws.
My Dog Ate Vaseline…Now What
If your dog ate petroleum jelly, what should your next steps be? Vaseline is generally not poisonous to dogs. It may cause some stomach upset that could lead to vomiting and diarrhea. Or it may not affect your dog at all. Dogs can’t digest petroleum jelly, so it just passes right through their system.
A small amount of Vaseline shouldn’t present any problems. However, if your dog consumed a lot of it, or you’re not sure how much he ate, consult a veterinarian or call thePet Poison Helpline. Ingesting a considerable quantity of Vaselinecould causemore severe vomiting and diarrhea, and eventually,dehydration. Dehydration almost always warrants prompt veterinary attention.
If your furry friend has sampled Vaseline, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on him for a day or two to see how it affects him. If he has diarrhea or vomiting, and his symptoms persist for more than 24 hours, veterinary intervention is usually in order.
Another cause for concern is if your dog ate Vaseline that had something added to it, like cocoa butter. Cocoabutter is toxic to dogs because cocoa contains theobromine, which dogs cannot metabolize. Consuming a small quantity maycause digestive problems but probably won’t do any long-term damage. Dogs that eat large amounts may experienceseizures and even death. If your dog ingestsVaseline with cocoa butter in it, consult your veterinarian and monitor your dog for signs of trouble.
Other colorings and flavorings added to Vaseline can cause health issues for dogs, too. If your dog manages to eat the container the Vaseline came in, say the plastic cylinder for lip balm, it could become lodged somewhere in your dog’s digestive system. If this happens, contact yourvet.
Is Shea Butter Toxic to Dogs?
She butter is another frequently-used moisturizer, and you may be wondering if it’sharmful to your dog. Although shea butter is not for canine consumption, it won’t prove toxic to your pet. Some fur conditioners meant for dogs have shea butter in them. Your dog may lick some from its fur before you rinse it out, but it’s nothing to worry over.
If your dog consumes shea butter froma “people product,” it shouldn’t be dangerous unless itcontains other ingredients that are toxic to animals.
Can I Put Vaseline on My Dog?
While Vaseline probably won’t cause your dog any long-term harm and may not affect him at all, it’s best to avoid using it altogether. After all, applying it to your pup’s skinis an invitation for him to eat it, so it probably won’t be able to do its job as a moisturizer. Instead, use creamsdesigned justfor canines. If your pet has a skin condition and you’re not sure how to treat it, ask your vet for recommendations.
Some pet parents apply petroleum jelly to their dogs’ dry, cracked paws, especially during cold weather. If your pup’s paws need some TLC, ask yourveterinarian what the best product is to use. Dry, cracked paws may sometimes indicate another underlying health condition.
Why Does My Dog Want to Eat Vaseline Anyway?
Dogs like to eat whatever they can find. Especially when they’re in the puppy and “teenager” stage, they explore their environment by chewing. The scent is why dogs choose to chew on something. If they like the way it smells, they want to give it a taste. Sometimes, too, pups think that whatever they’re curious about must be a toy or a treat, which often leads them to eat things they’re not supposed to.
Cocoa butter, other sweet flavors, and colors are sometimes added to Vaseline, especially in lip balm. Dogs may be drawn to these scents and colors, too.
And of course, if the Vaseline is on you and your dog licks you, he would probably do that anyway because that’s how he shows love.
How Can I Discourage My Dog from Chewing on Things?
One way dogs end up accidentally ingesting things is by chewingon them. You can take some steps to discourage this behavior or channel your pup’s energy in a more constructive way. Like human infants and toddlers, puppies go through a teething stage, and chewing soothes their gums. Adult dogs may continue this behavior because they’re bored, fearful, have separation anxiety, or want attention.
To prevent your dog’s destructive gnawing, theHumane Society of the United States recommendsthat you:
- Offer a teething dog a frozen washcloth to chew. Supervise your dog to ensure it doesn’t eat the washcloth.
- Don’t offer your pooch household items for chewing. Instead, offer them toys designed for canines.
- When you catch your dog gnawing on something it shouldn’t have, give itsomething itcanchew on.
- Praise your dog when you catch him chewing on a toy instead of the furniture.
- Don’t punish your dog after the fact.Dogs can’t make the connection between the chewed item you found and the consequences you delivered later on.
- When you catch yourpet chewing on something that’s supposed to be off-limits, don’t run after him; he’ll think it’s a game.
Puppy-Proofing Your Home to Avoid Accidental Ingestions
Certainly, our pets can get into anything in any part of our homes. But they’re especially likely to find things to eat in the kitchen. The bathroom medicine cabinet (or anywhere we keep medication) can be a hotspot, too. Here aresome tipsformaintaining these areas as pet-proof as possible.
- Place child-proof latches on cupboards.
- Put a locked lid on the trash can and consider placing it in a latched cabinet.
- Keep wrapped foods out of reach even if the food is pet-safe; the packaging probably isn’t.
- Keep the toilet lid closed so the puppy doesn’t drink harmful cleaners or chemicals that may be in the water.
- Keep medication, cleaning products, and other items in locked cabinets or higher cupboards.
FAQs
Can I use other “human” products on my dogs, like lotion and shampoo?
It’s better not to apply products on your canine that are intended for humans. Lotions and shampoos, for instance, are designed for human skin and hair. Dogs’ skin has a different pH than ours and requires products formulated specifically for canines.
What should I do if my dog ingests other cosmetic products, like mascara, aloe gel, etc.?
Call your veterinarian to report what happened and list the ingredients printed on the label. Your vet will need to consider each product’s risks in light of what it contains and how much the dog ate.
Can I give my dog Vaseline for constipation or help him pass a foreign object?
Do not use Vaseline to managing canine constipation or to help him pass something he swallowed. Dogs are usually given paraffin for this. Contact your veterinarian if you’re concerned about your pet’s bowel movements or related issues because there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for treating them.
Will my dog be OK if she eats grease?
If your dog samples grease from the grill or leftovers from the frying pan, there’s probably no cause for alarm. She may have some vomiting and diarrhea, and if this lasts for more than 24 hours, call a vet. If she ate an exceptionally large quantity, it could lead to pancreatitis or kidney failure, but that’s an extreme case scenario.
What kinds of fat are not good for dogs?
Try to minimize your pup’s consumption of animal fats — meat drippings, scraps, and skins. Also, keep other fats like butter, margarine, avocado oil, shortening, and high-fat dairy foods out of herdiet.
Related posts:
My Dog Ate A Stick Of Butter – What Kind Of Hell Awaits Us?Why Does My Dog Chew on BlanketsAre Nutter Butters Safe for Dogs?Will a little bit of peanut butter make my dog constipated?
FAQs
My dog ate Vaseline (petroleum jelly) - Should I be Worried? ›
Vaseline itself is just petroleum jelly and is not toxic to dogs. However, if your pup has eaten a large quantity of Vaseline, this may cause more severe signs of vomiting and diarrhea. Severe vomiting and diarrhea can lead to dehydration. Dehydration will typically require treatment by your veterinarian.
Will Vaseline hurt a dog if they eat it? ›While Vaseline is technically non-toxic for dogs, it does not mean it is 100% safe. If over-ingested (and they will lick) it can cause an upset stomach, which can lead to vomiting or diarrhoea. Vaseline forms a barrier over your dog's skin trapping in toxins, dirt and bacteria.
How much Vaseline is toxic to dogs? ›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.
What happens if you eat Vaseline petroleum jelly? ›If swallowed in small amounts, the petroleum jelly can act as a laxative and cause soft or loose stools. There is also a risk for choking if a large amount is put in the mouth and incorrectly swallowed.
Is Vaseline safe for dogs paws? ›Paw balm or petroleum jelly-based products keep your dog's paws safe and moisturized. If boots don't feel right for your best friend, try Vaseline or a paw balm such as Musher's Secret.
Is petroleum toxic in dogs? ›Petroleum products contain hydrocarbons that are toxic to dogs as well as humans. Exposure to large amounts causes serious illness and even death. Petroleum hydrocarbon poisoning in dogs can take place through ingestion, inhalation, or direct skin contact.
Is Vaseline toxic to ingest? ›Is Petroleum Jelly Safe to be ingested? Another myth surrounding petroleum jelly is that it is toxic. In fact, Vaseline® Jelly meets FDA requirements for being safe for human consumption.
Is Vaseline the same thing as petroleum jelly? ›Petroleum jelly is made from a blend of natural waxes and mineral oils. People often refer in general to petroleum jelly as “Vaseline®”, but the real Vaseline® petroleum jelly is different. The real Vaseline® petroleum jelly is triple purified to remove impurities. It is gentle enough to be used on sensitive skin.
How is Vaseline toxic? ›When properly refined, petrolatum has no known health concerns. However, petrolatum is often not fully refined in the US, which means it can be contaminated with toxic chemicals called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
Is it safe for dogs to eat Olive Oil? ›The resounding answer is YES, olive oil offers many benefits for dogs. Similar to us, dogs also suffer from dry, flaky skin. Olive oil contains phytonutrients, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids that help keep your dog's skin moisturized and well-nourished.
What happens if you accidentally ingest aquaphor? ›
An overdose of petrolatum topical is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medicine.
Is aquaphor the same as Vaseline? ›Vaseline contains 100 percent petroleum jelly, while Aquaphor includes other ingredients like mineral oil, ceresin, lanolin alcohol, panthenol, glycerin, and bisabolol. Both can be used on lips and skin, as wound healers, and as makeup removers or cuticle softeners.
Is Vaseline a food grade lubricant? ›Vaseline can be processed as grease with the lubricating properties of oil. In view of the unique formula, suitable for use in the food industry, in accordance with NSF registration H1, number 139225.
How do you make a dog pass a blockage? ›If your dog is dehydrated, your vet will give them IV fluids. Beyond rehydrating, fluids can also encourage the GI tract to push the blockage down through the intestines and out of your dog's body. Some foreign objects, given time, can pass on their own.
What can I give my dog to help pass a foreign object? ›Feed a bulky meal of dry food to cushion stones or other heavy objects, and help them move on out. Food also turns on the digestive juices, which can help soften wads of rawhide treats, so they pass more readily.
Why is my dog chewing his paws? ›In most cases, this is normal behavior—dogs bite their paws to clean them, remove debris they may have picked up outside, scratch a little itch, or even out of boredom.
How do you treat petroleum poisoning in dogs? ›Your veterinarian will give your dog activated charcoal to decontaminate and neutralize the toxin. If your dog ingested the petroleum products recently, a stomach lavage (wash) will also be performed.
What are the most toxic substances for dogs? ›- Onions.
- Salt.
- Tobacco products (including e-cigarettes and their refills)
- Xylitol (a sweetener found in products such as some sugar-free chewing gum, sugar-free candy, cough syrup, mouthwash, and toothpaste)
- Yeast products (like raw bread dough)
5Per Vaseline's representative, "Vaseline Jelly meets U.S. and EU Pharmacopoeia standards on purity. It is triple-purified to remove carcinogenic material—meaning it does not pose a risk of causing cancer.
What are the ingredients in Vaseline petroleum jelly? ›Composition : Water (aqua), Glycerin, Stearic Acid, Isopropyl Palmitate, Glycol Stearate, Peg-100 Stearate, Mineral Oil, Dimethicone, Petrolatum, Glyceryl Stearate, Phenoxyethanol, Cetyl Alcohol, Methylparaben, Acrylates/c10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Triethanolamine, Propylparaben, Disodium EDTA, Stearamide Amp, ...
What is Vaseline made of? ›
Vaseline® Jelly is made of 100% pure petroleum jelly which is a blend of mineral oils and waxes. Discovered by Robert Chesebrough in 1859, Vaseline® Jelly has had a long and dynamic history of keeping skin protected which you can read about.
Is petroleum jelly harmless? ›When properly refined, petrolatum is said to have no known health concerns. However, according some sources, petrolatum is often not fully refined in the US, which means it can be contaminated with toxic chemicals called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
Is there a difference between petroleum jelly and petrolatum? ›What is the Difference Between Petrolatum and Petroleum Jelly? There is no difference in chemical composition and physical properties between petrolatum and petroleum jelly because both names refer to the same compound. The only difference is that petrolatum is the North American name for petroleum jelly.
Why is petroleum jelly called Vaseline? ›It was originally called 'Wonder Jelly', and Chesebrough decided to rebrand the product as Vaseline® Jelly – a combination of the German word for water (wasser) and the Greek word for oil (oleon). And so in 1872 the brand Vaseline® Jelly was born.
Is Vaseline safe for cats to ingest? ›When applied to the cat's skin or fed to them in acceptable amounts, they are not poisonous. Because of the way Vaseline is created, it passes through their digestive system relatively undamaged when they lick or ingest it. Vaseline is safe for cats because of this.
Is there bacteria in Vaseline? ›Some bacteria, such as staphylococci, can survive and even thrive in petroleum jelly. These bacteria can cause skin infections if introduced to a wound, making it important to maintain proper hygiene when using petroleum jelly. Additionally, bacteria can form a slimy biofilm on the surface of the petroleum jelly.
Is it OK to put Vaseline on your lips? ›The secret to dealing with dry, sore, chapped lips is to find a way to lock in moisture and protect the lips from the cold, dry air. Vaseline® Healing Jelly is an excellent choice as it forms a protective layer on the lips and penetrates deep down to rehydrate the skin and speed up the its natural renewal process.
Is coconut oil or olive oil better for dogs? ›Unlike olive oil, coconut oil doesn't contain a high amount of omega fatty acids. While it does have some, it isn't enough for your dog to access as many of the benefits as other oils can. Coconut oil also isn't as easily digested and processed, which may render the few fatty acids that get through less helpful.
Are eggs good for dogs? ›Are Eggs Good for Dogs? Eggs are perfectly safe for dogs, Eggs are a great source of nutrition for your canine companion. They are high in protein, fatty acids, vitamins, and fatty acids that help support your dog inside and out. Remember that eggs are only as good as the chicken they come from.
Can dogs eat bananas? ›Yes, dogs can eat bananas. In moderation, bananas are a great low-calorie treat for dogs. They're high in potassium, vitamins, biotin, fiber, and copper. They are low in cholesterol and sodium, but because of their high sugar content, bananas should be given as a treat, not part of your dog's main diet.
Will Aquaphor hurt dogs if ingested? ›
Don't let your dog eat Aquaphor — If your pup licks a small amount off of their paws, that's OK. Just don't let them ingest large amounts of Aquaphor, it may cause your dog to have diarrhea. We recommend paw balms for dry skin — It's okay to use Aquaphor on your dog.
Is it OK to swallow a little Aquaphor? ›This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.
Is Aquaphor toxic if ingested by dogs? ›Although Aquaphor is safe to apply on dogs' skin, it can cause stomach upset if ingested. Don't be alarmed if your dog ingests a small amount of Aquaphor. You usually will not see any issues arise from this.
Is Aquaphor 100% petroleum jelly? ›Is Aquaphor the Same as Petroleum Jelly? Aquaphor is different from a 100% petroleum jelly product like Vaseline. Aquaphor only contains 41% petroleum jelly but does come with additional ingredients that moisturize the skin.
What are the side effects of Aquaphor? ›Serious side effects of Aquaphor
Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
This product contains antibiotics that work by slowing or stopping the growth of bacteria.
Is Vaseline as a good lube as a guy? ›Although people can use Vaseline as a sexual lubricant, it is not the best option. Vaseline can damage latex condoms, trap bacteria that can lead to an infection, and stain clothing and bedsheets. Instead of Vaseline, people may want to consider choosing a high quality, water based lubricant.
What is food grade petroleum jelly? ›It is a tasteless and odorless white gel lubricant made of USP mineral oil and other USP ingredients. This lubricant gel has a high melting point, is impervious to water, and will not contaminate food products when it comes in contact with them.
Is petroleum jelly food grade grease? ›In actuality, petroleum jelly satisfies FDA standards for food safety.
Will a dog still poop if they have a blockage? ›Diarrhea/difficulty defecating (pooping)/Straining to defecate: A dog with a partial blockage may have diarrhea as liquid squeezes around the obstruction. If there is a complete blockage, the dog may try to defecate but won't be able to.
How soon will a dog show signs of a blockage? ›
The symptoms of an intestinal blockage generally occur within 24 hours after swallowing the problematic item. However, depending on where the item lodges, the time frame may vary—the earlier in the system the item is lodged, the sooner symptoms will emerge.
What are signs a dog has a blockage? ›Most dogs with a GI obstruction have severe abdominal pain as well as a lack of appetite. A classic sign of pain is the bowing down position. Your dog may not want to be touched on the tummy. Or she may groan and be tense and wide eyed when you touch her there.
Will pumpkin help dog pass obstruction? ›For a pet that is constipated, the high water and fiber content in the pumpkin will help add bulk and soften the stool, acting as a natural laxative and making the stool easier to pass. Even if your pet has no digestive issues, adding a bit of pumpkin to his or her diet can help your pet stay regular.
Does bread help dogs pass objects? ›Bread binds or pads swallowed foreign objects like sharp bits of bone – or indigestible objects – enabling them to pass through the digestive tract. This is not true for all foreign objects or shards of bone, but bread can help your dog digest small pieces.
How long can a dog survive with a blockage? ›Blockages cause a number of complications, including preventing food and water from passing through theirGI tract and decreasing blood flow. Your dog can even die from an intestinal blockage within 3-7 days. Blockages can occur anywhere along the digestive tract.
Why does my dog just sit and stare at me? ›Just as humans stare into the eyes of someone they adore, dogs will stare at their owners to express affection. In fact, mutual staring between humans and dogs releases oxytocin, known as the love hormone. This chemical plays an important role in bonding and boosts feelings of love and trust.
Can I give my dog Benadryl for licking paws? ›#1: Benadryl
When dog parents suspect their pup has allergies, one of the first things they want to try is an over-the-counter anti-histamine. In most cases, it is okay to use Benadryl for a dog's itchy paws.
Licking is a natural and instinctive behaviour to dogs. For them it's a way of grooming, bonding, and expressing themselves. Your dog may lick you to say they love you, to get your attention, to help soothe themselves if they're stressed, to show empathy or because you taste good to them!
Can I put Vaseline on my dog for fleas? ›No, you should not use Vaseline on your dog. Vaseline is an oil-based product and can be irritating to the skin if applied directly or can even cause an allergic reaction in some dogs.
What is Vaseline used for in dogs? ›One of the most common places that pet owners use Vaseline is on their dog's nose. Apply a thin layer of Vaseline to your dog's nose during the winter months to protect against dryness and cracking.
Is it safe for dogs to eat olive oil? ›
The resounding answer is YES, olive oil offers many benefits for dogs. Similar to us, dogs also suffer from dry, flaky skin. Olive oil contains phytonutrients, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids that help keep your dog's skin moisturized and well-nourished.
Does Vaseline smother mites on dogs? ›There are many myths about treating mange. These include putting motor oil on the coat, shaving the hair, suffocating the mites by applying Vaseline or other ointments. NONE OF THESE TREATMENTS WORK! In fact, they can seriously injure your pet.
Can I put Vaseline on my dogs dry ears? ›Vaseline is a synthetic, petroleum-based product formulated for human use only. More importantly, it does not actually moisturize dry skin! In fact, petroleum jelly can actually encourage infection by clogging pores. Vaseline is not a solution for dry dog ears.
Can I put coconut oil on my dog? ›How to use coconut oil on dogs. Coconut oil is generally safe for dogs to eat in small amounts or have applied to their skin or fur. When it comes to selecting a brand, virgin coconut oil is best, as most of coconut oil's benefits have been observed with this type.
Why does my dog keep scratching and shaking his ears? ›Common causes include skin allergies, ear infections and ear mites. Contact your vet as soon as possible if you notice your dog head shaking/scratching their ears – the sooner the problem is diagnosed, the easier it will be to treat.
Is Vaseline better than coconut oil? ›Coconut Oil's ability to penetrate the skin seamlessly makes it equally as effective as Petroleum Jelly when treating dryness. However, Coconut Oil is gentler on the skin, the hair, and the environment.
Is olive oil or coconut oil better for dogs? ›Unlike olive oil, coconut oil doesn't contain a high amount of omega fatty acids. While it does have some, it isn't enough for your dog to access as many of the benefits as other oils can. Coconut oil also isn't as easily digested and processed, which may render the few fatty acids that get through less helpful.
Why is pumpkin good for dogs? ›Pumpkin is a natural source of fibre. Cooked and mashed pumpkin with no added salt can help settle down an upset stomach , improve digestion, reduce anal gland problems, prevent hairball build up and help dogs and cats with both constipation and diarrhoea.