How to Treat Poison Oak on a Dog

The chances a dog will become irritated by exposure to poison oak are minimal. Dog hair generally acts a barrier against the toxins in poison oak and other poisonous plants. If a dog comes in contact with poison oak via the nose, paws or any area without fur, however, immediate treatment is necessary to reduce irritation. Signs of irritation include excessive scratching and redness or raised rashes. Should a dog ingest poison oak leaves, veterinary attention is most often required.

Things You'll Need

  • Latex gloves
  • Rubbing alcohol
  • Cotton balls
  • Cold water
  • Wash cloth
  • Tecnu skin cleanser
Show More

Instructions

  1. Treatment Using Alcohol

    • 1

      Soak a cotton ball or cloth in rubbing alcohol.

    • 2

      Apply alcohol to the poison oak-irritated skin (i.e., paws, nose, stomach), ensuring your hands are protected with latex gloves.

    • 3

      Rinse alcohol away with cold water only. Allow skin to dry; do not reapply alcohol.

    Treatment Using Tecnu

    • 4

      Put latex gloves on your hands to avoid cross-contamination of poison oak.

    • 5

      Apply Tecnu to irritated skin areas including the nose, paws or other fur-less areas.

    • 6

      Rinse Tecnu away with cold water or wipe off with a cold cloth. Do not reapply the Tecnu.