The Effects of Insecticides on Dogs

Insecticides are pesticides (substance used to kills pests) and include anything from substances applied to gardens and lawns to topical treatments for the pet. Dogs walking on treated lawns or other places are exposed to these poisons. This often leads to ingestion of the insecticides after licking their fur or paws. Poisonous consequences can occur from insecticides applied directly onto the dog for flea and tick prevention. Some studies show a correlation between insecticide use and certain types of cancer in dogs.

  1. Diazinon

    • Pancreatitis in dogs can happen as a result of accidental contact with the product diazinon. Diazinon is used in several products labeled to kill insects such as cockroaches, ants and fleas. Cell death, interstitial edema (swelling) and vasculitis (inflammation of blood vessels) are evidence of pancreatitis.

    Permethrin

    • Neurotoxicity (acts on the nervous system) occurs from exposure to permethrin. Permethrin is used for agriculture, home and garden as well as forestry pest control. It is even used to control head lice. Exposure to this insecticide causes a multitude of symptoms including excitability, convulsions, eye irritation as well as redness, swelling and blistering of the skin. Other effects include damage to the immune system. Immune system cells are damaged and their activity is reduced or non-functional. Permethrin can also inhibit the dog̵7;s liver function.

    Aresenic

    • Arsenic can cause death well before symptoms can be observed. This insecticide is used in snail baits, ant poisons as well as other pesticides. If ingested, the dog̵7;s breath will smell strongly of garlic. Signs of arsenic poisoning are thirst, vomiting, drooling, staggering, cramps, diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, paralysis and even death.

    Phosphorus

    • Phosphorus poisoning can also result in death. Roach insecticides may include lethal doses of phosphorus. Like arsenic, a dog̵7;s breath may smell of garlic. Signs of intoxication may include vomiting and diarrhea. Signs may reside and reoccur. Cramps, abdominal pain, vomiting, convulsions and possibly a coma may ensue.

    Organophosphates

    • Organophosphates and carbamates cause toxicity in dogs. These insecticides are commonly used in flea and tick products which are applied topically onto the skin of the dog. Adverse reactions to these insecticides include but are not limited to: fever, diarrhea, vomiting, seizures, anorexia, depression, muscle tremors, hypersalivation, increased heart rate, constricted pupils, lack of coordination and respiratory failure. These symptoms can last for days or weeks.