Poison ivy is one of the most common plants in the United States. Most people can find it growing in their backyards or on the side of the road. The only place you won’t find it is in desert and places of high altitude. The majority of humans on the planet are allergic to the plant and will break out in a rash when they come into contact with it. While dogs are not usually allergic to it, there are some that can have a reaction from it.
Prevention
When a dog comes into contact with the plant the urushiol oil – the toxic substance that causes the symptoms – will stick to the coat and spread it to the owners or anyone who touches them. To keep this from happening you need to apply rubbing alcohol onto it. This will help to break the oil down.
You can put this on the fur – but keep it away from their face and genitals. When you are sure you got it all off, rinse them down with a garden hose for ten minutes. Dry the dog off and than rinse yourself off in cold water and wash your clothes immediately. Using cold water will help to keep your pores closed and prevent any severe reaction to the urushiol oil.
Treatment
If your dog breaks out in a rash then you need to keep the dog from licking the affected area. Put a cone around his head to be sure that he doesn’t do anything when you are not looking. Apply an ointment that will help to reduce the itching.
One of the best things you can give your dog is jewelweed. This is a common weed that usually grows near a poison ivy plant. Mash it up and apply it to the rash. A cold compress and a fan will help to keep the area cool and prevent blisters. If your dog has severe symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea than you should take them to the vet immediately.