Dogs & Poison Oak

Poison oak is a toxic plant found in the environment. The plant's sap contains a toxic oil resin that causes the skin to become irritated when it comes in contact with a person's skin and the skin of some animals. Although the effects of poison oak are less severe in animals such as dogs, they can still spread the toxin to people.

  1. Exposure

    • Poison oak is generally found in wooded areas such as a park or even a person's backyard. When the dog comes into contact with the plant as he walks and plays in wooded areas infested with poison oak, the toxic plant sap adheres to his coat. If a person susceptible to poison oak pets the dog, he can pick up the toxic sap on his hands, causing his skin to become irritated. A dog that eats the plant, even if just a little bit, can also become infected with poison from the plant's sap.

    Reaction in Humans

    • Symptoms of contact with poison oak in people include red, itchy, irritated skin and raised, red bumps on the skin. These symptoms can occur even if the owner doesn't come into direct contact with the plant, but from touching his dog that has the toxic sap on his coat.

    Reaction in Dogs

    • Even though it's rare for a dog's skin to become irritated when he comes in contact with poison oak, it's possible it can occur. The risk of skin irritation increases if the dog digests the plant rather than just rubs against it. If the dog begins to vomit, has diarrhea or shows signs of lethargy after playing outside, these could be signs he's experiencing a more severe reaction to the poison oak plant.

    Treatment

    • Dogs that have come into contact with the plant and haven't digested it need to be bathed to rid his coat from the toxic substance. PetPlace.com recommends bathing the dog for at least 10 minutes to ensure the substance is completely removed. In addition, it's advised that the bather wear gloves to prevent the toxic oil from spreading to his skin. Dog owners should also observe their dog for signs, such as nausea, diarrhea and unusual tiredness, which could indicate the dog digested the plant or is affected by the plant's toxicity. If these symptoms are apparent, the dog should immediately be taken to a veterinarian.

    Prevention

    • Dog owners should avoid wooded areas that may contain poison oak plants whenever possible. Do not allow a dog to wander in areas where plants and trees are overgrown to limit exposure to poison oak.