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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