1. Call Animal Poison Control:** Contact the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661 immediately. They will provide expert guidance and advice based on your dog's symptoms and the type of bleach ingested.
2. Try to Identify the Bleach:** If possible, determine what type of bleach your dog ingested. Different types of bleach (such as chlorine bleach, pool bleach, or laundry bleach) may require different treatment approaches.
3. Rinse the Mouth:** Gently rinse your dog's mouth with cool water to dilute any remaining bleach. Be careful not to force water into the lungs.
4. Induce Vomiting (ONLY if recommended by Animal Poison Control): If instructed by the poison control expert, induce vomiting by giving your dog a tablespoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide per 10 pounds of body weight. Mix the hydrogen peroxide with water in a 1:1 ratio. Administer the mixture using an oral syringe or dropper, and be ready to catch the vomit.
5. Monitor Symptoms:** Closely observe your dog for signs of distress, including vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, or lethargy. If any of these symptoms occur, seek immediate veterinary attention.
6. Do Not Give Home Remedies:** Avoid giving your dog any home remedies, such as milk or baking soda, without first consulting a veterinary professional. They may interact negatively with the bleach or further worsen the situation.
Long-Term Care:
1. Veterinary Care:** If your dog has ingested bleach and survived the immediate danger, take them to a veterinarian for further evaluation and treatment. The vet may recommend additional medications, fluids, or specialized care to address any internal injuries or complications.
2. Follow-up Care:** Ensure your dog receives proper follow-up care, as recommended by your vet. This may involve regular check-ups, blood tests, and monitoring of their health status to ensure full recovery.
Prevention:
1. Store Bleach Safely:** Keep all bleach and cleaning products out of reach of your dog. Store them in locked cabinets or on high shelves to minimize the risk of accidental ingestion.
2. Use Bleach Cautiously:** When using bleach for cleaning, ensure your dog is not in the area and take precautions to prevent spills or splashes.
3. Educate Family Members:** Make sure all household members are aware of the dangers of bleach and the importance of keeping it out of reach of pets.
4. Choose Pet-Safe Products:** Consider opting for pet-safe alternatives when selecting household cleaners to minimize the risk of potential accidents.