Dog Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon Monoxide poisoning in dogs can happen the same way it does in humans, for example when a dog is exposed to a vehicle’s exhaust when in a closed area such as a garage, or through a ventilation problem inside your house, or even airplane gas that is released and accumulated in the cargo hold area during a plane ride. Dogs can also be exposed to carbon monoxide via a fire through smoke inhalation. If you suspect your dog has been exposed to carbon monoxide, get him or her to a well ventilated area, preferably outside and then get them to your nearest veterinarian.

Signs and Symptoms

The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning in dogs and cats is very similar to those found in people, these include :

• Signs of Dog Lethargy
• Sleepiness
• Coordination problems
• Having difficulties breathing, perhaps panting uncontrollably
• The dog or cat’s skin color may become bright red
• Loss of consciousness

If any of these occur or you know your dog has been exposed to carbon monoxide, you must take action immediately, because their life truly depends on your actions.

Treatment

The one thing that your dog needs when they have been exposed to prolonged exposure to carbon monoxide is oxygen. When you arrive at your veterinarian’s he or she will provide 100 percent oxygen in order to supply the dog’s body and blood with fresh oxygen so that your dog can rebound from the carbon monoxide poisoning.
In addition, your veterinarian will hydrate your dog via electrolytes and they may require a ventilator depending on how long they were exposed.

Prevention

Obviously, you do not want to leave your dog inside your car, or garage, while it is running in a closed garage, especially if there are no windows. This is asking for trouble and is an easily avoidable problem. In addition, if you plan to move and have a dog that requires an airplane flight, you may want to consider an alternative type of travel arrangement because dogs are placed in the cargo area on a plane, which is extremely traumatic for them, but can also cause exposure to carbon monoxide. There are several door-to-door companies that can transport your dog in a safe manner that is less traumatic for your dog and offers safer air quality.

In addition, if you know how your dog became exposed, other than a car, make sure the problem is fixed before bringing him or her back into the area where he or she became exposed in the first place.

Conclusion

When it comes to your dog’s safety, you are basically in charge; your dog depends on you for everything from food, water, to the very air they breathe. Carbon monoxide poisoning is very preventable, especially if it is from an auto in a garage. Remember, that even in parking garages, if the car is left running, your dog can be exposed to the gases that can cause them harm.