While reports of acid attacks on humans have increased, it is also important to know what to do if your pet is affected by a similar attack.
What can you do to prevent these burns?
Just like children, pets should not have any access to household cleaning products.
Keep things like bleach, washing machine liquid and other cleaning detergents far out of reach of a pet, such as on a high shelf.
In winter, always examine your dog’s paws when they come in from being outside.
Rinse and wipe them to remove any trace of rock salt or de-icing products.
Symptoms of chemical or acid burns
It can be hard to see signs of these burns on pets because their fur may cover it up slightly.
Furthermore, it can take up to 3 days for the visual signs of a chemical or acid burn to show.
Still, there are some symptoms to look out for:
- red and inflamed skin
- blistering
- discharge
- discolouration
- sensitivity – the pet may become defensive when you touch at or around the area
Caustic substances most commonly affect the feet and the mouth/ tongue (from licking to clean themselves)
How to treat a burn
Wear:
- gloves, safety glasses, a mask, and a long-sleeved top/ something to protect your arms
- muzzle your pet (safely) if they are becoming sensitive or defensive and lashing out
Keep windows and doors open to ensure a well-ventilated area.
If the burn is from a dry chemical, brush away as much of a substance as possible. A pillowcase over the head would be useful to protect the mouth, nose, and eyes from further contamination whilst brushing them down
Rinse the contaminated area with large amounts of tepid (warm) flowing water – a shower is good for this.
If the chemical is in the pet’s eyes, flush with clean water or sterile saline for 15-20 minutes.
Do not put anything else on the burn.
Never apply ice to the burn. Very high or very low temperatures are not good for these burns.
If the burn was caused by a household product, it is often useful to read the packet to see if there are any specific instructions.
Of course, none of this is sufficient advice for treating the burn yourself. You should always be seeking veterinary advices as soon as possible.
Due to this, it is also helpful to take the chemical’s container with you to the vet, so they can react appropriately.
About us
Written by Emma Hammett for First Aid for Life
Award-winning first aid training tailored to your needs
It is strongly advised that you attend a practical First Aid for Pets course or take our online course to understand what to do in a medical emergency. Please visit https://firstaidforlife.org.uk, https://www.firstaidforpets.net or call 0208 675 4036 for more information about our courses.
First Aid for Life is a multi-award-winning, fully regulated first aid training provider. Our trainers are highly experienced medical, health and emergency services professionals. They will tailor the training to your needs. Courses for groups or individuals at our venue or yours.
First Aid for Pets provides this information for guidance. It is not in any way a substitute for veterinary advice. The author does not accept any liability or responsibility for any inaccuracies or for any mistreatment or misdiagnosis of any person or animal, however caused.