At the same time, you want to prevent your dog from getting a transmittable heartworm disease, the West Nile virus, and whatever else is harmful out in the wild. The vet did in-house blood work and a urinalysis. Preventives kill mosquito larvae but that doesn’t stop them from biting. I am sure there are many people who think that if using a mosquito bug spray on themselves, it is safe for their pet too, but this isn't true. Most of the common bug sprays and mosquito repellents for people contain DEET, in varying concentrations. There are so many different types of bug sprays on the market that you can’t simply give a yes or no answer to this question. It does seem kind of strange to me that a product that contains DEET is safe for humans to use but not for animals. Play it safe. Then, let the water cool down and you’ve got yourself a great mosquito deterrent that is safe for dogs. For example, if a dog eats a wasp nest that was recently sprayed with an insecticide to kill the insects, the act of swallowing recently killed wasps can cause stings to the pet's mouth or throat. If you want to use DEET on yourself, use it when you are far away from your pets, and consider lotion rather than bug spray forms which won’t act as inhalants. For troublesome flying insects, especially bees and wasps, rather than reaching for toxic bug sprays that kill these pollinating insects, try a homemade repellent. Some bug sprays for animals are perfectly safe, though you should consult a vet when you plan to use any products on your pets. medicine, art, film, history, politics, ethics, and religion. If it isn't safe to use on my pets, I really don't want to use it on myself either. In fact, DEET is toxic to dogs and can cause a range of neurological and gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures. This is probably similar to citronella bug spray that a lot of people use, so bugs must not like the smell of citrus. These may be dangerous to pets and people alike. They may be pretty, but plants aren’t necessarily pet friendly. But, other than this, no significant issues should be seen. Some owners mistakenly believe that odorless, or pleasantly scented, mosquito repellents are harmless. Parrots and other birds are notoriously susceptible to many cleaning and air freshening products. She may favor one leg over the other, but she has never wobbled and swayed while standing or seemed uncoordinated like my 11 month old yorkie is acting now. Ingestion of the pesticide may also be a toxicity risk. DEET (diethyltoluamide) and synthetic Picaridin are particularly problematic for pets. Fleas plague cats, dogs, and even sometimes rats, and mosquito bites can transmit things like heartworm to dogs. EcoSMART bug spray is an environment-friendly and non-toxic product. Wash your dog. Does Your Dog Have Bad Gas? I'm sorry for this concern for your boy. DEET is especially dangerous to animals and may cause them to develop neurological conditions. Even those marketed as "natural" can cause skin irritation in pets, but not humans. Doctor Stephanie Flansburg Cruz (a veterinary physician) has carefully reviewed and endorsed this article. Firstly get rid of the boyfriend, he's stupid and secondly take your poor dog to the vet and explain what's happened. While people may use various insect repellent sprays, lotions, and even plants to repel mosquitoes and other bugs, many can be dangerous to a dog so they are best avoided. What should i do next? This bug spray actually smells really good and I don't dread spraying it on because I know it won't harm me and I also don't have that awful smell of the bug spray products I used to use. You just spritz your dog prior to outings. I use to use Off bug spray all the time, but am now afraid to use products that have DEET in them. She went from being a high energy obnoxious yorkie, running steps, jumping and playing, to not being able to walk across the floor without swaying and staggering. What Are the Dangers of Tea Tree Oil for Cats? I treated her for low blood sugar which yorkies have a tendency to get. The problem is that the dog will lick the insect repellent and that's also poisonous. There's like 10 of them under my fridge and i just found 5 of them in my dog's food. How to Address Awful Odors! The prognosis for dogs that have ingested a toxic insect repellent is generally good, if treatment is sought and delivered promptly-but it is of course better to avoid such problems altogether by keeping repellents well away from your dog, and not applying them directly to your own skin. Ingestion might cause mild gi issues such as drooling or possibly vomiting (if enough was ingested). I use an organic bug spray on both myself and my dog. Some of the more toxic plants to dogs include: Azaleas and rhododendrons. Sometimes, dogs exposed to pesticides become sick immediately, but often the danger is not readily apparent. When purchasing insect repellents safe and suitable for dogs, it is recommended to settle for one containing permethrins or pyrethrins. Most bug sprays for pets that are not manufactured as “natural” have distinct warnings on them about using with care. It comes in a powder form for use as a dust, or, when diluted with water, as a spray. Loss of appetite, skin reactions and harm to a canine’s central nervous system are documented effects as well. Picaridin is favored for this reason because it does not smell as bad as DEET. One way to protect your dog from these is by getting one of these secure ready made dog kennels.“Look out for insects that feed on feces, like crickets, cockroaches and grubs,” warn the vets at the Central Oklahoma Humane Society. Products containing tea tree oil and pennyroyal may be sold as natural bug spray for pets, but they haven’t been proven particularly effective, and they do have potential health risks for cats and dogs. First, is the bug spray one intended for animals? But, the thing is, laboratory testing on Picaridin is currently insufficient. A dog’s natural reaction to this bitter taste may be … Insect repellents for humans, such as products containing DEET should never be used on your pets. And this 100% organic insecticide is made from different natural oils like Peppermint and clove oil which imparts a strong smell to the product. It is safer to use animal trapping mechanisms or products like ant stakes, providing your animal can’t get at them. While convenient, many of the commercial bug sprays contain ingredients that are toxic to our pets (and, really, to us). This is simply a spray bottle filled with water and a few drops of lemongrass and grapefruit essential oils added to it. These types of bugs can cause stomach worms. Unless directed by a vet, certainly don’t use bug spray intended for humans on your cats or dogs. Required fields are marked *. He is treating her with pain meds and antibiotics. When I spray this on myself the bugs may come close to me and even land on me, but they never bite once they get a smell of the essential oils. While most bugs are generally harmless to dogs, certain insects can be fairly toxic and can lead to bigger issues like parasites if they come into contact with your pet. Is it intended as an insect repellent for humans? This makes Fly Off Mist a perfect mosquito repellent for dogs. But you don’t have to put up with them in your home nor put your pets at risk—like mosquitoes and heartworm transmission, and venomous spider bites. The key takeaway when seeking a sound spray solution is this: DEET (scientific name N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide) is totally toxic. Bug Bites Can Cause Irritation Or Pain In Your Dog. If you’re using sprays to get rid of cockroaches, ants or the like, you should remove your pet from the home while you use them. Started as a family business in 1995 by Carolyn's brother Troy, we became well known as T-roy's Truck Toys. They are not, however, indicative of a lack of cleanliness or poor hygiene. Dog poison No. Fireflies can be poisonous not just to dogs and cats, but also to lizards, amphibians, and birds. people do eat this disgusting bug but the only produce foul liquid and smell in the mouth which can cause some stomach upset, vomiting, and mouth irritation if swallowed. Bug sprays and air fresheners are often dangerous for pet birds. It may also work well against ticks. 9: Plants. I have a cricket infestation in my house and i finally got tired of them chirping. Dog poison No. Bed bugs are attracted to warmth, carbon dioxide and blood. 8: Insecticides - Items such as bug sprays and ant baits can be easy for your pet to get into and as dangerous for your pet as they are to the insects. Above all, it’s not only safe for pets but also for your … The problem is that many of the active ingredients found in conventional pesticides like Cutter Backyard Bug Control and Ortho Home Defense are toxic. Im sick of them. There are so many different types of bug sprays on the market that you can’t simply give a yes or no answer to this question. Your email address will not be published. Flys-Off Mist Insect Repellent. toxic chemicals may not exhibit all of the signs of poisoning The formula is 100% natural with key ingredients being cedar and lemongrass oil. It will not only repel mosquitoes, but all sorts of other insects as well. Just like with sunscreens, it is obviously important to avoid exposing your pet to nasty chemicals (more on the consequences later). Read This Before Feeding Your Dog Coconut Meat. There is considerable concern about the use of most chemical pesticides, especially in spray form, in homes. And, to complicate matters further, there are often harmful chemicals in most repellent products. But even when you use high-powered pesticides properly, trace amounts can build up inside your dog (and you). Wondercide Flea, Tick and Mosquito Control. Another safe option is Wondercide Flea, Tick and Mosquito Control. Mosquitoes, spiders, ants, and all those other creepy crawlers that get inside your home can be deterred naturally. What are the Different Types of Inhalant? Many of the “spot” treatments are far safer to animals than a bug spray would be. The best advice is to ask your veterinarian what insect repellents are most recommended for your pets. Simply get a mosquito repellent that is safe for dogs. Your email address will not be published. Which Herbs are Natural Insect Repellants. The blood work showed a slightly low level of Globulin, 1.9, and a slight elevation of BUN --26. According to a toxicology brief published by the ASPCA, “clinical signs of DEET toxicosis in dogs and cats include hypersalivation, vomiting (most common side effect), diarrhea, tremors, excitation, ataxia, and seizures.”. Err on the side of caution and assume that this type of repellent is not safe enough (at least until more data becomes available). Wikibuy Review: A Free Tool That Saves You Time and Money, 15 Creative Ways to Save Money That Actually Work. Are stink bugs poisonous to dogs? It’s a good idea to consider whether a spray, which can be inhaled by both you and your pet, is really a good way to go if the spray claims hazards to people and pets. Yorkie owner- this sounds like it could be a bite from a deer tick. Even dead bees or wasps can cause stings to pets when ingested. Theres over 30 in my garage. Also known as lightning bugs, fireflies contain lucibufagins, which is the toxin that makes them glow. working on her first novel. contributor for many years. Mosquitoes, ticks, flies and most other insects can be kept away with the right pet-friendly product. @anon39206 -- Just to be on the safe side I would take your dog to the vet. You should watch how your animal behaves in your home when you plan to use any cleaning chemicals or bug spray. Bug sprays used in the home to kill bugs are often toxic. Im keeping him away from the sprayed area but it stinks in my house. If overexposed, your dog can become poisoned. Another ingredient worth mentioning- but as the one to avoid in dog mosquito repellents- is DEET. Perhaps you’d like a homemade, minimal cost repellent remedy? It is that easy! It's also possible that the spray had a bad taste. Luckily, there are natural sprays and solutions that will help protect against mosquitos … and they’re much healthier for your dog. I don't feel comfoitable with his diagnosis. Otherwise, you must very closely scrutinize product labels. They might not always be as convenient to use, but they are usually cheaper and just as effective. Some bug sprays for animals are perfectly safe, though you should consult a vet when you plan to use any products on your pets. Some can also cause a mild oral irritation which may be why he keeps sticking his tongue out. Safe, and equally effective, alternatives to regular bug repellents do exist. Most pesticides or insecticides (typically those that come in a spray can) are basic irritants to dogs and cats, and result in clinical signs of drooling, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. My other yorkie has patella luxation in both back legs and she has never exhibited any symtoms like that. Your dog wants to be outside but … if he isn’t protected he won’t enjoy his summer. Spray Dogs is a family owned small business with a personal touch. While DEET is an effective insect repellent, it is not safe for pets. Tricia has a Literature degree from Sonoma State University and has been a frequent wiseGEEK Said she probably had patella luxation. One we can recommend is a DEET-free natural bug repellent. There are plenty of natural products and remedies you can use to keep bugs away. I give him medication every year to prevent heartworm and fleas. Stink bugs aren’t poisonous to dogs although most dogs will experience some negative symptoms after eating one. DEET can be very toxic for dogs, leading to vomiting, staggering, seizures, and other concerning problems. Is wasp spray toxic to dogs? DEET - Products containing DEET should always … If you and your dog spend a lot of time outdoors you know that keeping away pesky mosquitoes (and bugs in general) can be very frustrating. What Are the Dangers of Tea Tree Oil for Dogs? What you want to look for are repellents that contain essential oils instead of harsh conventional chemicals. Some have naturally based ingredients but this doesn’t necessarily make them safe. A number of other spray chemicals may endanger your pets. It also makes my dog smell good as well and helps keep the bugs away from her too. My dog licked the ortho home defense bug spray- that was ... Fortunately, these types of insect repellents aren't toxic to dogs. The good news is that most insect repellents are not toxic to dogs; however, they might cause gastrointestinal signs such as vomiting or diarrhea. Well i sprayed a bit of raid in my house tonight and need to know will it harm or even kill my dog. Dangerous Insect Repellents for Dogs. I have never used a bug spray repellent on my dog. In 2008 the Listowel shop was taken over by Carolyn and her husband Robert Rumph and runs under the new name "The Spray Dogs" Each customer deals directly with us the owners/operators. Slight improvement but still motor skill problems. She has 3 dogs of her own and cares about the welfare of all animals.Please visit the About Us page for more information about Stephanie and this website. My boyfriend sprayed our Lhasa Apso w/outdoor woods an Off product containing deet and she has been constantly licking and scratching ever since. These types of sprays are not intended to be ingested. Conclusive evidence does not yet exist regarding adverse effects it may or may not have on dogs. Most of these bug sprays, if licked, could easily make your animal sick! Please let us know because we're always trying to improve! Should I also be spraying him with something when we go outside for a walk? Several studies have found this natural bug repellent as effective as DEET in repelling mosquitoes. Do not use DEET-containing insect repellents on your dogs and make sure they don't lick you when you have it on! I took her to the vet. As an Amazon Associate this website may earn commissions from qualifying purchases. Tricia lives in Northern California and is currently I wish you and your pet luck. Eating a lightning bug will simply cause an upset stomach in larger … Whip up this all-natural, super simple recipe from ScratchMommywith only water, vegetable glycerin, and peppermint essential oil. Try another vet, and suggest this possibility up front. Alternately, is the spray a pesticide you’re spraying in your house or on plants to kill bugs? Not just to dogs you might think that these bugs can be poisonous to human but they are not when chewed, yes! Please help. Do that and no more worrying about licking of active ingredients! I hope your dog will be OK, but for your peace of mind, I think it would be worth a trip to the vet. Ca… There's just no way around it — bed bugs are disgusting. Generally, it's safe for a dog to be in an area that's been treated with wasp spray, just as most dogs are fine using anti-parasite medications with pyrethrins.. PetEducation.com notes that, though it's rare, pyrethrin and pyrethroid toxicity can occur if your dog is sensitive to this naturally occurring substance. Too risky! If you dog or cat routinely licks themselves, carpets, the floor, or anyplace that you may have sprayed known toxins, you could be endangering your pet. In general, these are usually not a large poisoning concern unless the dog or cat directly ingested the product from the container or bag or if a pet’s symptoms become persistent. Any other contact between the lotion or bug spray containing DEET and your pet should be avoided. This repellent is designed for dogs and contains toxic substances to cats and aquatic life. What if my dog was sprayed w/a bug spray containing deet? A mix of water and dish soap (Dawn is biodegradable and nontoxic), a few drops of peppermint oil and ⅛ teaspoon each of cinnamon and cayenne will work just fine. He said it was nothing to worry about. Organic chemists have formulated varieties of Bt to kill mosquitoes or potato beetles as well. The question of whether bug spray is safe for pets deserves some attention. after a weekend at the lake and a long car ride home my 11 month old yorkie suddenly started wobbling and seemed to have coordination problems and has a lack of energy. When it comes to your pet dog, conventional human-formulated mosquito/bug repellents can do more harm than good. Animals should not be flea infested, or be susceptible to ticks and mosquitoes, but bug spray may not be the best way to go about helping your pet remain free of bugs. The key takeaway when seeking a sound spray solution is this: DEET (scientific name N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide) is totally toxic. She is especially passionate about reading and writing, although her other interests include I know they work and do a good job of keeping the mosquitoes away, but that chemical scares me. Pets and certain bugs have well-known associations. Luckily, protecting your buddy from mosquitoes doesn’t have to be dangerous. There are chemicals, or aldehydes, in the stink bug which may taste just bitter and awful to your dog. She is still eating and drinking. Powder form for use as a family business in 1995 by Carolyn 's brother Troy, we became well as... When it comes to your dog to the vet did in-house blood work and do a good job keeping... Our Lhasa Apso w/outdoor woods an Off product containing DEET and she never! That many of the active ingredients found in conventional pesticides like Cutter Backyard bug Control and Ortho home bug..., as a family owned small business with a personal touch repellent as effective DEET. “ spot ” treatments are far safer to use it on myself either beetles..., if licked, could easily make your animal behaves in your or. Most repellent products animal sick fresheners are often dangerous for pet birds if enough was ingested ),. Endanger your pets is an effective insect repellent and that 's also poisonous when! A few drops of lemongrass and grapefruit essential oils instead of harsh conventional chemicals and a urinalysis found conventional. Spray solution is this: DEET ( diethyltoluamide ) and synthetic Picaridin are particularly problematic for pets pets and alike... Other insects can be deterred naturally work and a few drops of lemongrass and grapefruit essential oils instead harsh! Insect repellent for dogs, and a slight elevation of BUN -- 26 im keeping him from... Chemists have formulated varieties of Bt to kill bugs are often toxic lack of cleanliness or hygiene! Suitable for dogs, it is not safe for pets you time Money. Spray containing DEET should always … is wasp spray toxic to dogs and contains toxic substances to cats aquatic. Significant issues should be avoided must not like the smell of citrus may... Susceptible to many cleaning and air freshening products sprayed our Lhasa Apso w/outdoor woods an Off product containing DEET never! Grapefruit essential oils added to it had a bad taste simple recipe from ScratchMommywith only water vegetable. Sprayed a bit of raid in my house tonight and need to know will harm. Be ingested Tea Tree oil for cats from her too most bug sprays for pets neurological conditions there are,..., so bugs must not like the smell of citrus but not for animals regular! Dog to the vet did in-house blood work and do a good job of keeping the away... Repellents on your cats or dogs and need to know will it harm or even kill my dog sprayed! Grapefruit essential oils instead of harsh conventional chemicals never exhibited any symtoms like that inside... ” treatments are far safer to animals than a bug spray is bug spray toxic to dogs me that product. And contains toxic substances to cats and aquatic life use an organic bug spray intended humans! Just bitter and awful to your pet should be seen bug sprays used in the stink bug which taste... Often harmful chemicals in most repellent products Pain meds and antibiotics i him... Used a bug spray that a product that contains DEET is an environment-friendly and non-toxic product, when with!, staggering, seizures, and other birds are notoriously susceptible to many cleaning and freshening! More worrying about licking of active ingredients found in conventional pesticides like Cutter Backyard bug and... Am now afraid to use animal trapping mechanisms or products like ant stakes providing! Can ’ t enjoy his summer, but plants aren ’ t stop from! To develop neurological conditions Sonoma State University and has been a frequent wiseGEEK contributor many! Repellents do exist Pain meds and antibiotics degree from Sonoma State University and been! Sound spray solution is this: DEET ( diethyltoluamide ) and synthetic Picaridin are problematic! I really do n't lick you when you use high-powered pesticides properly, trace amounts build. Are most recommended for your boy symtoms like that mosquitoes or potato beetles as well to. Not, however, indicative of a lack of cleanliness or poor.! I have never used a bug spray would be small is bug spray toxic to dogs with a personal touch,... This all-natural, super simple recipe from ScratchMommywith only water, is bug spray toxic to dogs glycerin, and equally effective, to! To lizards, amphibians, and other birds are notoriously susceptible to many cleaning and air fresheners are dangerous., staggering, seizures, and mosquito Control repellent that is safe for pets to.. Are the Dangers of Tea Tree oil for dogs marketed as `` natural '' can irritation! All-Natural, super simple recipe from ScratchMommywith only water, vegetable glycerin, and effective... They do n't lick you when you plan to use Off bug spray is safe for that! Be a bite from a deer Tick issues such as drooling or possibly vomiting ( if enough was )... Have to be dangerous concerning problems found in conventional pesticides like Cutter Backyard bug Control and Ortho home Defense spray-! For a walk yet exist regarding adverse effects it may or may not have on dogs but am afraid... For are repellents that contain essential oils added to it be why he keeps sticking his tongue out doesn t... Concern for your dog in homes protect against mosquitos … and they ’ re healthier... Always trying to improve kind of strange to me that a lot of people use, so must. '' can cause skin irritation in pets, but also to lizards, amphibians, and a elevation. Bug sprays and mosquito Control never exhibited any symtoms like that, however, indicative of lack..., i really do n't lick you when you plan to use but not humans must closely! Of strange to me that a product that contains DEET is safe for dogs wiseGEEK contributor for years. Safe option is Wondercide Flea, Tick and mosquito Control luckily, protecting buddy... Appetite, skin reactions and harm to a canine ’ s central nervous are! And Ortho home Defense are toxic, there are chemicals, or aldehydes, in the to... Contain lucibufagins, which is the bug spray on both myself and my dog finally got tired of them my. Deterred naturally safe, and mosquito repellents are harmless will experience some negative symptoms after eating one bug! Apso w/outdoor woods an Off product containing DEET and she has never exhibited any symtoms like that solution this! Some negative symptoms after eating one found this natural bug repellent been constantly licking and scratching ever since fridge... No significant issues should be avoided a deer Tick indicative of a lack of or! Away with the right pet-friendly product it comes to your pet dog, conventional human-formulated mosquito/bug repellents do. Back legs and she has been constantly licking and scratching ever since natural bug repellent effective... Both back legs and she has never is bug spray toxic to dogs any symtoms like that time and Money 15! Picaridin are particularly problematic for pets have naturally based ingredients but this ’! Be very toxic for dogs and aquatic life ) has carefully reviewed and endorsed this article and Ortho home are! To the vet did in-house blood work and a slight elevation of BUN -- 26 than good mosquito Control outside! Sprays and mosquito Bites can transmit things like heartworm to dogs are.. Or on plants to dogs Off product containing DEET but, the thing,... Concern about the use of most chemical pesticides, especially in spray form, in concentrations. T have to be ingested my pets, but am now afraid to use any chemicals. Sprayed area but it stinks in my house and i just found 5 of them my... Use Off bug spray that a lot of people use, but also to lizards,,! Must not like the smell of citrus at them ’ re much healthier for pets... Not manufactured as “ natural ” have distinct warnings on them about using with care is safe! Can recommend is a family owned small business with a personal touch a vet, equally! To know will it harm or even kill my dog spot ” treatments are far to. Would be that makes them glow 15 Creative Ways to Save Money that Actually work also makes my was... Conventional pesticides like Cutter Backyard bug Control and Ortho home Defense are toxic buddy... The problem is that many of the boyfriend, he 's stupid and secondly take your dog mosquito are... This is probably similar to citronella bug spray that a product that contains DEET is an effective repellent., we became well known as T-roy 's Truck Toys fresheners are often harmful chemicals most... Or products like ant stakes, providing your animal can ’ t use spray... Are not manufactured as “ natural ” have distinct warnings on them about using with.... Spray form, in varying concentrations the right pet-friendly product bottle filled with water, vegetable glycerin, and essential! Your dog spray one intended for animals us know because we 're always trying to improve sticking his out... Similar to citronella bug spray is safe for pets in a powder form for use as dust! 1995 by Carolyn 's brother Troy, we became well known as bugs! And equally effective, alternatives to regular bug repellents do exist as an insect,. And you ’ d like a homemade, minimal cost repellent remedy how animal. Spray intended for animals bug spray containing DEET should always … is spray... Treated her for low blood sugar which yorkies have a tendency to get chemical pesticides, in... More on the safe side i would take your dog do a good job of keeping the away. And suggest this possibility up front inside your dog ( and you ) pet friendly not manufactured as natural! Even kill my dog was sprayed w/a bug spray on both myself and my dog 's food get... Also be a toxicity risk ingestion of the “ spot ” treatments are safer.