As the colder temperatures come, our homes (doors and windows) are closed down tight. A cozy fire or romantic cozy candles fill the room. You may love the scent of an aromatherapy candle or diffuser. Be aware We know dogs have a superior nose to us humans. That being said, What smells good to us could be overpowering your pooch.
Dogs' bodies process these concentrated plant extracts differently than humans do, making them much more sensitive to their effects. Understanding which oils are harmful and recognizing the warning signs of toxicity could save your pet's life in an emergency situation.
Early signs: to notice Early signs of essential oil exposure may include mild drooling, licking at the lips, or slight discomfort. Your dog might show decreased appetite or seem mildly agitated. Some dogs may paw at their face or mouth if they've had direct contact with the oil. Even these subtle signs warrant a call to your veterinarian for guidance.
Mild symptoms could look like slight drooling or discomfort can quickly progress to more severe signs of poisoning. What appears as minor irritation can develop into organ damage, especially affecting the liver and kidneys. Puppies, senior dogs, and those with health conditions are particularly vulnerable to rapid decline after essential oil exposure.
URGENT SYMPTOMS: Seizing, heavy panting, muscle tremors, vomiting (especially if bloody), or sudden low energy require quick veterinary attention. Difficulty walking, breathing problems, or unusual behavior like confusion can signal serious toxicity. These symptoms may appear within minutes to hours after exposure and can worsen rapidly without proper care.
Toxic Aromatherapy:
Oils that can be toxic from both ingestion and skin exposure include:
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Cinnamon
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Clove
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Hyssop
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Citrus
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Pennyroyal
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Peppermint
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Pine
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Sweet birch
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Wintergreen
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Ylang ylang
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Lemongrass
These varieties should be avoided both as a liquid potpourri product as well as an essential oil.
