What Are the Treatments for a Dog With Poison Ivy Skin Irritation?

Dogs are usually highly resistant to the oil in poison ivy that causes skin irritation, but in rare cases, they may develop contact dermatitis (especially on the nose or underbelly). Unless you treat this condition promptly, your dog could swallow some of the toxic oil while self-cleaning, which may cause the irritation to spread internally.

  1. Bathing and Rinsing

    • The dog health website Pet Place recommends prompt and thorough bathing for dogs that have come into contact with poison ivy. Use warm water and a mild shampoo, and bathe the animal for at least 10 minutes. This will remove the toxic oil from your dog's fur and exposed skin. Wear protective gloves while bathing your pet, to ensure that none of the oil gets on your skin.

    Home Remedies

    • According to the Pet Education website, washing your dog's bedding with a hypoallergenic shampoo can help to limit the persistence and spread of the poison ivy irritant.

      Pet Education also recommends supplementing your dog's diet with biotin and fatty acids (e.g., fish oil) to help control the itching and swelling associated with allergic reactions.

      If the skin irritation persists despite these treatments, you will need to consult a licensed veterinary doctor.

    Veterinary Remedies

    • If you take your dog to a veterinarian, she may prescribe a topical anti-inflammatory or antihistamine to reduce the swelling and itching. You may also need to protect the affected area during this treatment, to prevent your dog from biting the irritated skin or licking off the medication. In some cases, your dog may have to wear an unsightly, cone-shaped bite collar; this will prevent it from reaching the inflamed area until the skin irritation subsides.