Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Dogs
Written By Mel Lee-Smith
Published: 09/30/2015Updated: 12/03/2021
Veterinary reviewed by Michele K.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Dogs - Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, Recovery, Management, Cost
What is Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?
Carbon monoxide poisoning in dogs occurs when the odorless gas is inhaled and absorbed into the bloodstream. Gas or smoke that leaks from engines, fireplaces, and kerosene or propane equipment builds up quickly in low-ventilated areas like garages and covered patios. Carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying component of red blood cells, and prevents the blood from carrying oxygen to the brain and heart. Low oxygen levels can quickly result in coma or death. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a poisonous gas that is produced from fires, car exhaust, and outdoor generators. Carbon monoxide is toxic to all species. When inhaled in high enough concentrations CO causes oxygen starvation (e.g., hypoxia) to the cells of the body.
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From 57 quotes ranging from $300 - $5,000
Average Cost
$500
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Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Dogs
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can include one or more of the following:
  • Drowsiness
  • Weakness
  • Red lips, ears, and gums
  • Incoordination
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Exercise intolerance
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Collapse
Causes of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Dogs
Sources of dangerous levels of carbon monoxide gas can include:
  • Automobile exhaust
  • Barbecue grills
  • Gas fireplaces
  • Gas water heaters
  • Kerosene lanterns
  • Kerosene space heaters
  • Ovens
  • Propane heaters
  • Furnaces
  • Burning buildings
  • Airplane cargo space
Any slow gas leak or smoke in areas of poor ventilation (rooms without open windows or vents and moving air) can expose pets and people to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide.
Diagnosis of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Dogs
Diagnosis is based on symptoms and possibility of exposure to carbon monoxide. Your veterinarian will want to know where the pet was throughout the day, whether carbon monoxide sources were nearby, and whether other pets or family members are experiencing similar symptoms. Pets having difficulty breathing or collapsed pets will be treated with oxygen and supportive therapy immediately, prior to diagnosis.
Blood analysis can determine increased creatinine kinase levels and low blood pH (acidosis), both seen with carbon monoxide poisoning. Carboxyhemoglobin levels in the blood will be elevated.
Treatment of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Dogs
If you suspect your pet has been exposed to carbon monoxide gas, move him to an open space with fresh air immediately. If your pet has no observable pulse or heartbeat or has collapsed and you are properly trained, perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). It is important to transport your pet to the vet as soon as possible for supportive care.
The goal of treatment for carbon monoxide poisoning is to re-oxygenate the blood as quickly as possible.
Oxygen therapy
Your veterinarian will begin oxygen therapy immediately using a breathing mask or oxygen chamber. Oxygen levels may be monitored using a pulse oximeter.
Intravenous fluids
Oxygen deprivation causes the blood to become acidic. Intravenous fluid therapy can aid in bringing the blood pH back to normal.
Respiratory support
A ventilator may be required to bring a pet to a stable condition over a longer period of time.
Depending on the severity of carbon monoxide poisoning, your pet may need to be hospitalized until symptoms reside and blood oxygen levels are normalized. In mild cases that are treated early, the pet should recover fully. In cases of chronic exposure to carbon monoxide gas, or in cases of severe poisoning, the pet may not be able to be stabilized or harbor long-term side effect to the brain.
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Recovery of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Dogs
Follow up appointments may be necessary to determine complete recovery from carbon monoxide poisoning. After your pet arrives home, physical activity should be limited for 3-4 weeks. Rest and proper diet and water are good for healing.
Check all equipment for gas leaks and install carbon monoxide monitors to ensure the problem has been taken care of. Carbon monoxide gas has no color, no odor and is not irritating. Without a carbon monoxide monitor, there is no way of knowing it is present until symptoms of sickness arise.
Keep all equipment that uses gas, kerosene or propane well maintained. Be sure there are no cracks in hoses. When performing maintenance, do so in a well ventilated area, preferably outdoors and/or with fans to disperse any gas fumes.
Never to leave a pet in an enclosed space without some form of ventilation and airflow.
Cost of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Dogs
Once at the animal hospital, the veterinarian can begin oxygen therapy and monitoring the dog’s pulse and other vital signs. Oxygen therapy can cost $120 to $210 per treatment. When the blood has been depleted of oxygen, the blood becomes acidic and therefore needs to be regulated. Intravenous fluids would be administered and usually cost $40 to $80. The veterinarian may also see the need to put the dog on respiratory support (or a ventilator) if he is having trouble breathing. Your dog will need to be hospitalized until the blood and other vitals return to normal. This can cost $40 to $800 per day.
Carbon monoxide poisoning in dogs can be expensive to treat. To protect your dog and yourself in case of an accident or emergency, start searching for pet insurance today. Wag!’s pet insurance comparison tool lets you compare plans from leading companies like PetPlan and Embrace. Find the “pawfect” plan for your pet in just a few clicks!
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Average Cost
From 57 quotes ranging from $300 - $5,000
Average Cost
$500
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Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
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Lhasa Apso
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Six Months
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My pet has the following symptoms:
Redness
My puppy inhale cooking gas for a least a hour. She’s moving around normal should I be worried
Sept. 28, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
0 Recommendations
Thank you for your question. I hope that she is okay.
Oct. 9, 2020
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Chihuahua
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dog-age-icon
Nine Years
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My pet has the following symptoms:
Green Vomit
My dog has been throwing up green after the stove leaked some gas we open the doors right away but we’re not sure if that’s what caused him to start puking green, he’s been active he’s been running around and he hasn’t lost his appetite at all we’re not sure if it was something he ate.
July 29, 2020
Answered by Dr. Sara O. DVM
0 Recommendations
Hello, So sorry to hear about your dog. If he has vomiting 6 to7 times, it would be best to see your vet. Small dogs can quickly become dehydrated. Your vet can prescribe your dog with medication to help him feel much better.
July 30, 2020
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Chihuahua
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dog-age-icon
Eight Years
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0 found this helpful

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0 found this helpful

My pet has the following symptoms:
Green Vomit
He’s thrown up like 6-7 times today it also started today the vomit does not have chunks of food in it it’s clear
July 29, 2020
Answered by Dr. Sara O. DVM
0 Recommendations
Hello, So sorry to hear about your dog. If he has vomiting 6 to7 times, it would be best to see your vet. Small dogs can quickly become dehydrated. Your vet can prescribe your dog with medication to help him feel much better.
July 30, 2020
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German Shepherd
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Leah
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3 Months
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1 found this helpful

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1 found this helpful

My dog is 3 months, she's a german shepherd. I saw her licking a puddle off the parking lot and i quicking grabbed her and got her away from that.It was gasoline from a car that she licked. Now she can't week walk, she's weak, eyes closed, and not really moving. I don't know what to do?
Aug. 21, 2018
1 Recommendations
Any product ingested from a petroleum distillate requires immediate attention from your Veterinarian for care; puddles of ‘stuff’ in car parks may be petrol, diesel, oil, brake fluid, antifreeze among other nasty things. You should visit your Veterinarian immediately. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM https://wagwalking.com/condition/petroleum-distallates-poisoning www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poison/petroleum-distillates/ www.msdvetmanual.com/toxicology/petroleum-product-poisoning/overview-of-petroleum-product-poisoning
Aug. 21, 2018
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Pit bull
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Makoa
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2 Years
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My pet has the following symptoms:
Catatonic, Spasms
Last fall we all (fiance, myself, 3 dogs) were exposed to carbon monoxide poisoning. I managed to call 911. Responders said dogs seemed ok. But ever since I noticed my dog and the one who woke me repeatedly until I called for help, has been having more spasms when sleeping and at times when I try to wake her she seems out of it (blankly stares doesn't move) and sometimes grawls in her sleep. Could these be caused by the exposure?
June 5, 2018
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
0 Recommendations
It is very unlikely that the signs that she is showing now are related to the exposure last fall, as carbon monoxide poisoning passes as the gasses are replaced. She may be dreaming or reliving the incident.
June 5, 2018
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American Staffordshire Terrier
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Cersei
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3 Years
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My pet has the following symptoms:
Lethargy
After the gas was accidentally left on the stove all day in my basement apartment, my 78 lb AmStaff dog seemed lethargic and difficult to get out of the bed. After walking outside for 15-20 minutes, she seemed her normal energetic self. Should I take her to the vet? or should she be ok. The apartment was aired out prior to returning and the air quality is good now. Just wondering should I be concerned?
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Cocker Spaniel
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Blue
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5 Years
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My pet has the following symptoms:
Diarrhea
Gagging
Hi, I'm not sure what's up with my dog (a 5 year old healthy Cocker spaniel). He's been having heavy diarrhea and threated to vomit. The carbon monoxide alarm went off yesterday for about 5 minutes but went off again so I'm slightly worried. Any advice?
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Average Cost
From 57 quotes ranging from $300 - $5,000
Average Cost
$500
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