Kerosene Heater Fumes & Dogs

Operating a kerosene heater in an enclosed area produces fumes that are toxic to dogs. Unless the area is properly ventilated, the fumes can cause your dog to become sick very quickly. Dogs who are exposed to kerosene fumes almost always require emergency treatment.

  1. Tumors

    • Noxious fumes from a kerosene heater increases the risk of nasal tumors in dogs. The fumes are absorbed through the mucous membranes. Dogs with long, thin muzzles tend to breathe through their noses, and consequently are more at risk of developing nasal tumors than dogs who have wide, short muzzles.

    Intoxication

    • Dogs can become intoxicated when breathing fumes from a kerosene heater. Your dog may vomit blood, and there could be an unusual odor to his breath. Your dog may become dizzy and stumble after inhaling hydrocarbon fumes from a kerosene heater. Take your dog to the veterinarian immediately if you suspect he's been exposed to kerosene fumes.

    Lungs

    • Kerosene heater fumes can cause seizures in your dog

      Kerosene fumes can cause secondary pneumonia in your dog. Breathing the toxic hydrocarbon fumes from the kerosene heater replaces the air in your dog's lungs, and burns his mucous membranes. No oxygen is transported to your dog's brain, causing seizures and irrational behavior. Your dog's gums may turn gray and then white, which indicates a lack of oxygen. Seek immediate veterinary care for your dog if he exhibits any of these symptoms. Do not induce vomiting.

    Behavior

    • Dogs who inhale kerosene heater fumes can get depressed or overly excited. The fumes can also cause confusion in your dog and he may react negatively to other dogs and people he knows. If you suspect your dog has any of these symptoms, get him to the veterinarian immediately.

    Internal Organs

    • Old dogs with health issues are especially susceptible to the risks of kerosene fumes

      Kerosene heater fumes damage your dog's heart, kidneys, liver and other internal organs by replacing the air in the lungs. The internal organs slowly shut down after prolonged exposure to kerosene fumes. If your dog "suddenly" dies, it could be from repeated exposure to kerosene fumes. Toxicology tests would detect the hydrocarbon fumes in your dog's blood.