What is Poison Ivy Poisoning?
Poison ivy, Toxicodendron radicans, is found in woody areas throughout most of North America and some parts of Asia. Despite its name, it doesn’t belong to the same family as other ivies and isn’t considered a true ivy. It is a well-known nuisance on hikes, since skin contact can cause dermatitis with an itchy, red rash developing a few days after exposure. An oil in the plant, called urushiol, is responsible for the histamine release that causes the rash. Unlike many plant toxins, urushiol is not a defense mechanism, but rather it assists the plant with water retention. It is extremely resilient and can be present in dead plant material for up to five years. Urushiol will also cling to clothing or fur unless it is actively washed off.
Poison ivy is not as toxic for dogs as it is for humans. Even among humans, allergic reactions can vary, with about 15-30% having no response at all. The rash is typically more severe with concentrated or repeated exposure. Dogs can respond with a similar rash as humans, but thick hair often protects the skin from exposure, even in urushiol sensitive dogs. Symptoms are most common in areas where dogs have thinner hair, like the stomach, nose, and groin, and hairless or short-haired dogs are more at risk. Symptoms are similar to humans, with an itchy rash developing at the point of contact, 3 days to a week after exposure. Severe cases can have fluid filled blisters that pop and spread the rash, increasing the chances of bacterial or fungal infection. Poison ivy isn’t especially toxic when eaten; in fact birds, bear and deer often consume the leaves and seeds for food. Dogs that ingest the plant may have gastrointestinal upset with symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea.
Even if your dog doesn’t have a reaction to poison ivy, it’s a good idea to avoid contact. Dogs that get the oil on their fur can transfer it to owners through petting or rubbing against the legs, and sensitive individuals can develop a reaction from secondary exposure. The plant has woody stems, and may grow as a low shrub or a vine. In is most commonly recognized by the well-known grouping of three almond-shaped leaves (called trifoliate), but it can also be seen as a thick hairy rope growing up the side of a tree. All parts of the plant contain urushiol oil.
Poison ivy poisoning is not as common in dogs as it is in humans. A dog’s fur will reduce the chance of skin exposure and many individuals appear not to be sensitive. However, some dogs experience the same symptoms as humans, with a red itchy rash developing at the point of contact. Ingestion of the plant also causes gastrointestinal upset.
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Symptoms of Poison Ivy Poisoning in Dogs
These are the symptoms you may see if your dog is exposed to poison ivy.
- Red skin
- Swelling and itching
- Fluid-filled blisters or scabs
- Vomiting (ingestion)
- Diarrhea (ingestion)
Types
There are numerous varieties and sub-species of Toxicodendron radicans. The plant can be found in three different forms.
- Shrub – poison ivy grows as a shrub-like plant about 3 feet (1.2 meters) high with the typical trifoliate shaped leaves
- Trailing vine – poison ivy can form a trailing vine on the ground with leaf sprigs close to 10 inches (25 centimeters high)
- Climbing vine – poison ivy often climbs up the side of trees where it appears as a thick woody vine with horizontal hair-like protrusions on either side
Causes of Poison Ivy Poisoning in Dogs
- Dog walking through a poison ivy patch
- Dog rolling in a poison ivy patch
- Dog eating poison ivy
- Some breeds are more at risk
Diagnosis of Poison Ivy Poisoning in Dogs
Diagnosis of poison ivy poisoning is usually based on symptoms and a history of exposure. Knowing that your dog was exposed to poison ivy can help correctly identify the condition. The rash will not appear until at least a few days later, and it may resemble other rashes and dermatitis. If your dog came in contact with poison ivy, you should check for symptoms regularly, especially where the hair is thin or short. The nose and muzzle are common areas of exposure as well as the belly, groin and inside of the legs.
If your dog ingested poison ivy, it’s a good idea to call a veterinarian or a poison helpline, especially if a large amount was ingested. Be ready with a description of the plant, as well as your dog’s weight and how much you think was eaten. If you take your dog to see a veterinarian in person, bring a sample of the plant for correct identification. Handle it with gloves and transport it in a sealed plastic bag.
Treatment of Poison Ivy Poisoning in Dogs
For immediate treatment, wash any area that came in contact with the plant thoroughly with soap and water. If urushiol oil is removed within a few hours, it will not cause symptoms, however, it’s impossible to know if the oil was successfully washed away until a few days later when the rash appears. Take the same precautions with yourself if you came in contact with the poison ivy, or with your dog after rolling in a poison ivy patch.
Mild cases of poison ivy poisoning will pass on their own. The veterinarian may prescribe topical ointments to reduce itching and make your dog more comfortable. Blisters and rashes that spread and become chronic should be covered to avoid infection and discourage your dog from scratching.
Systemic symptoms of fever, loss of appetite are possible, with very severe cases. If this is the case, you should definitely take your dog to see a veterinarian who can prescribe medication to treat the symptoms and ensure there isn’t a more serious infectious cause. Antibiotic or antifungal medication may be needed if infection is present.
With ingestion of poison ivy, symptoms of gastrointestinal upset are typically mild. Encourage your dog to drink fluids, and eat bland foods that won’t irritate the gastrointestinal tract further. If a large amount was ingested, veterinary treatment may be needed. Intravenous fluids and electrolytes can help prevent dehydration with severe vomiting and diarrhea.
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Recovery of Poison Ivy Poisoning in Dogs
Dogs usually recover from poison ivy poisoning without further problems. Recurrence can be an issue if there is a lot of poison ivy near your house, or where you walk your dog. Keep your dog on a leash around large poison ivy patches and discourage him from going near these areas on his own. Protective clothing, like dog sweaters, can be helpful if you take your dog on hikes.
Poison Ivy Poisoning Average Cost
From 563 quotes ranging from $300 - $600
Average Cost
$850
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Poison Ivy Poisoning Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
French Mastiff
Romeo
2 Years
9 found this helpful
9 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Puking , Diarreah No Eating
We found out that our new house has poison ivy only after my fiance and I both got it.. a day or two later my dogs balls were red. Next day they were swollen and red and prune like.. now he wont eat or drink and he is puking with diarreah. I think he ate ppison ivy while chewing a stick. We tried his diarreah pills and vomiting pills (left over from his surgery) and its not working. Please help!
June 6, 2018
9 Recommendations
After ingestion of poison ivy, there may be some gastrointestinal symptoms but they are usually mild and self limiting; you should keep Romeo hydrated and to to feed him bland foods like boiled chicken and rice, additionally you should bathe him with a canine oatmeal shampoo as well as bathing the area around the scrotum with a dilute antiseptic to be on the safe side. You should also visit your Veterinarian if there is no improvement or worsening of the symptoms. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
June 7, 2018
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Labrador Retriever
Haze
7 Months
3 found this helpful
3 found this helpful
I believe my dog has poison ivy. It is located right on his belly where there is no fur. I don’t know what to do or how to help. He doesn’t seem like he is in pain or discomfort. I had taken him a bath right before I noticed so I’m glad I did that. He occasionally licks it but that is pretty much it.
Jan. 8, 2018
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
3 Recommendations
Thank you for your email. If Haze has deeloped a rash on his belly and seems to be licking at it, it would be a good idea to have him seen by your veteirnarian to diagnose what might be causing that rash, and get him treatment before it becomes infected. If it is already showing signs of infection, he may benefit from antibiotic therapy or medicated shampoos.
Jan. 8, 2018
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Half german shepard half black lab
Buster
3 Years
5 found this helpful
5 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Vomiting
Vomit Lethargi
Dog ate poison ivy , he is a very energetic black lab german shepard mix about 80 lbs .he has vomitted 3 times today but the worry is hasnt touched his ball. He goes nowhere without it inyears ! Any advice would help thank you dont know exactly how much 3 leaves in the vomit
July 26, 2017
5 Recommendations
Poison ivy normally doesn’t affect dogs as it cannot make contact with the skin due to their coat; however, ingestion of poison ivy usually causes gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain) and irritation in and around the mouth. Vomiting is good as it will expel any leaves that are in the stomach and it is important to wash any remaining sap from around the mouth. Ensure that Buster remains hydrated and comfortable; if you notice any worsening of symptoms or are concerned, visit your Veterinarian. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
July 26, 2017
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Dachshund
Jack
8 Years
1 found this helpful
1 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Rash
My miniature dachshund gets it every years since he was 3, he is now 8. My vet said dogs dont get poison ivy, I said I am not sure I agree with you. My vet said it was flea saliva, but he had no fleas or evidence of any, they said it was his food, I make him organic chicken and carrots with coconut oil. He gets it, I get it, every year. Its starts on his rear end and works its way up his long torso. Every year the vet makes me bring him in to get a prescription for prednisone and usually an antibiotic too, along with a medicated shampoo. Everyear it costs me $185 PLUS for my dog while the ivy is out. We have bushes, vines on the ground and up the trees and I am also very allergic now. Thank God I live in NH and dies back when it gets cold and its cold for 6 months a year lol. Treatment for this should not be so costly for poison ivy and I dont care what the vet says, my dog Jack with his little 3 inch legs gets poison ivy really bad (its does not go away on its own--gets worse and spreads) just like me.
Poison Ivy Poisoning Average Cost
From 563 quotes ranging from $300 - $600
Average Cost
$850
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