While trying to remain safe and healthy, you keep hand sanitizer on hand, but you didn't think twice about keeping it underneath the sink or on a coffee table. That was until your dog got a hold of it. Now, you may be wondering if hand sanitizer is toxic and whether your dog needs to seek emergency treatment if they consumed some.
Hopefully, you won't ever find yourself in this situation. However, if you do notice that your dog ate hand sanitizer, this guide will walk you through what to do next.
What Ingredients Are in Hand Sanitizer?
The most common ingredient found in hand sanitizer is ethanol alcohol — the same ingredient that's in beer, wine and liquor — which can be dangerous for dogs to ingest. Depending on the hand sanitizer, it may contain 60% to 95% ethanol by volume.
What Happens If My Dog Consumes Hand Sanitizer?
If you think your pup got into your stash of hand sanitizer, you're probably afraid that it is toxic to them. The question of toxicity all depends on how much they ate. There is little cause for concern if they simply lick your hands after you've applied hand sanitizer. Consuming more than a lick's worth, however, could cause more serious issues for your dog.
So how much hand sanitizer is too much for a pup to consume? The answer depends on the size, health and weight of the dog in question. However, as the American Kennel Club (AKC) notes, "The amount of ethanol needed to cause intoxication varies depending on its concentration in the substance ingested." Hand sanitizer can be lethal for dogs if enough is ingested, so if you suspect your dog has gotten into some, call your veterinarian or the pet poison control hotline right away.
Tasty Tips
What Symptoms Should You Watch Out For?
Even if your pup hasn't gotten into your hand sanitizer, it's a good idea to know the symptoms they may display if they do ingest any type of ethanol alcohol. According to the AKC, the most common symptoms a dog will experience when they've ingested too much alcohol are:
- Lethargy
- Incoordination
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Weakness
- Collapsing
- Decreased respiratory rate
- Low blood sugar
- Low blood pressure
- Low body temperature
When Should You Get Help for Your Dog?
Contact your veterinarian as soon as you suspect that your dog has eaten hand sanitizer. They will likely ask you what type of hand sanitizer your dog consumed and the ingredients listed on the packaging. They will also ask about how much they might have consumed. Depending on those answers, they might suggest that you bring them to the clinic.
No one wants to worry about their pet falling seriously ill. Take a moment to scan your house for potential toxins, such as alcohol, hand sanitizer and cleaning supplies, and move them to high or locked areas that your dog can't access them. By taking these preventive steps, you can keep your pup safe and avoid potential toxic problems.
Related products
Adult 11+ Small & Mini Chicken, Brown Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
We make every bag of our dry dog food in our own US facilities with highest quality ingredients from North America, Europe and New Zealand. These ingredients must meet our strict requirements for purity and nutrient content, which exceed industry standards.
You can make a difference in the lives of shelter pets. With every purchase of Science Diet you help feed shelter pets globally - every day. In AUSTRALIA, since 1997, we have provided over 1.6M kg of Hill's pet food to LOCAL ANIMAL SHELTERS. Learn more at http://hillspet.com.au/shelters
Adult Large Breed Chicken & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Supports healthy joints, immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Adult Chicken & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Adult 7+ Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports energy level & luxurious coat in Small & Mini dogs. Helps keep immune system, heart & kidneys healthy.
Related articles
Puppy Supplies You Really Need
Gather the following puppy supplies to prepare your family for all the fun (and commitment) that comes with being a dog parent.
Keeping Your Dog From Begging at the Dinner Table
Learn how to stop your dog from begging at the dinner table, and understand how it can help contribute to his health.
Exercise Tips to Keep Your Dog Active
Discover fun and engaging games and other ways to help your dog exercise, keeping him happy and healthy.
What to Feed Your Pregnant or Nursing Dog
Proper nutrition for your pregnant or nursing dog is vital to her and her puppy's health. Learn what you should do provide her with the proper nutrients.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.