Many of the everyday cleaning products we use contain chemicals that can harm our canine companions. These chemicals, such as ammonia and chlorine, can damage a dog's respiratory system, eyes, and skin if they come in contact with them or are inhaled.
It is important to use pet-safe and eco-friendly cleaning products whenever possible to prevent harming your pet. Fortunately, plenty of options are available such as all-natural cleaners made from ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, and essential oils that are just as effective for eliminating dirt and odors without exposing our furry friends to toxic chemicals.
Taking the time to find dog-friendly cleaning solutions will help keep both you and your pup happy for years to come! This is why we have created this article; to go into more detail about what cleaning products that cause problems for your favorite four-legged friend.
Why Some Cleaning Products Might Harm Your Dog
When it comes to cleaning products and your pet, you should always be mindful of the chemicals that are present. Commonly used ingredients in traditional cleaning products such as bleach, ammonia, chlorine, formaldehyde, phenol and isopropyl alcohol, can all be extremely harmful to dogs if ingested or exposed to their skin.
These chemicals could cause serious health problems such as organ damage, mucous membranes, and skin irritation, neurological issues, and respiratory distress. It can also be difficult to tell when a dog has been affected as certain symptoms may not become evident until long after the exposure.
Therefore, it is important to be aware of the potential risks posed by everyday household cleaners and take steps to ensure that your dog does not come into contact with them.
Cleaning Products That Could Harm Your Dog
As dogs are often seen as part of the family, their health and well-being needs to be a priority for pet owners. Unfortunately, many common household cleaning products can harm our beloved pets.
Dog owners must take into account the safety of their pets when choosing cleaning products and ensure they use only non-toxic options in order to keep their furry friends safe.
Floor Cleaners
It is important to consider the cleaning products you use on the floors where your dog spends a lot of time. Dogs are known to be curious and can even pick up scents that may attract them to lick or consume different objects, including floors.
To keep your pup safe, it is crucial that you choose cleaning products that do not contain any ingredients or toxins that could be harmful if ingested. Additionally, be sure to read labels carefully and look for natural solutions whenever possible.
Toilet Bowl Cleaners
It is important to take precautions if your dog has a habit of drinking out of the toilet. Toilet bowl cleaners that clip onto the rim of the basin or those that are placed in the back of the tank can be extremely dangerous. The harsh chemicals they contain can cause irritation and burning sensations in your puppy's mouth, esophagus, and throat, making it difficult for them to swallow anything or breathe properly.
Additionally, these powerful cleaners can also irritate your pet's eyes and skin if they come into contact with them after being ingested. To avoid any potential health risks, look for natural products specifically designed for pet-safe cleaning or use regular dish soap instead.
Fabric Softeners
The ASPCA strongly advises pet owners to keep fabric-softening sheets away from their dogs. These detergents in the fabric-softening sheets can be very harmful to dogs if ingested. Even small amounts can cause serious health problems like oral ulcers, vomiting, and intestinal blockage.
People must keep unused fabric-softening sheets away from their dogs, as the chemicals contained in them are even more concentrated than those used in previously-used fabric-softening sheets.
It is helpful for pet owners to monitor their dogs closely when around these products and seek immediate medical attention if any signs of ingestion occur.
Counter Cleaners
Many varieties of household cleaners may be hazardous to pets, particularly dogs, if ingested. Dogs that are known for counter-surfing behavior are even more likely to be exposed to these hazardous materials. Kitchen cleaners in particular, can be dangerous since they often come in aerosol spray bottles which can disperse the cleaner into the air and potentially contaminate your pet's drinking bowl.
Even if the cleaner is not ingested, inhaling the chemicals while your pet explores the kitchen can also have adverse effects. To protect your pet from these unwanted consequences, it is important to keep all cleaning agents out of reach of your furry family member and to use natural alternatives when possible.
Opting for wipes instead of sprays whenever possible can help reduce airborne exposure as well as accidental ingestion.
Air Fresheners
Let's face it, if you have dogs, odds are your home smells like it. But don't worry, you can get rid of the doggy smell in your home, safely and easily. A natural alternative to air fresheners is homemade potpourri.
This can be made from cloves, dried rose petals and fruits which will give your home a pleasant scent without the possible health risks posed by chemical-based air fresheners. Not only is making your own potpourri an economical choice, but it is also better for the environment than relying on store-bought air fresheners. Additionally, lemon or lime juice can be used as a non-toxic and natural substitute to provide an invigorating citrus scent.
Safer Cleaning Alternatives
When it comes to cleaning products and pet safety, the ASPCA recommends owners follow the instructions on the package of any chemical-based solutions before using them in the home. It's always important to consider how your pet may react to any cleaning chemicals, especially those that contain strong scents that can be irritating for some animals.
Fortunately, there are options when it comes to creating more pet-friendly cleaning solutions. The best option you can choose is from Tru Earth. Our multi-surface cleaner is a revolutionary cleaning solution that eliminates up to 99% of germs, bacteria, fungi, mold and viruses that live on your surfaces, countertops and floors.
With just one strip of this powerful cleaner added to 250ml of hot water, you can simply refill your spray bottle with a refreshingly fragrant disinfectant. The light scent of fresh-cut lemons provides an irresistible aroma that is both therapeutic and energizing. Not only does our cleaner keep your home reliably safe from harmful germs and bacteria, it also provides an uplifting atmosphere in any room.
Moreover, the ingredients used are all natural and the packaging is made from recycled materials, making it environmentally friendly as well as effective. Enjoy germ-free surfaces without added chemicals or artificial fragrances that are safe for your family and furry friends.
