Are dogs immune to tear gas? One of the dangers these working dogs face is exposure to tear gas, and they are not immune to tear gas. Dogs are commonly used as police, military, and search and rescue dogs. They are also used as service animals for visually impaired, deaf, or other disabilities.
Dogs are now a good part of a police squad, and they go on missions with the policeman. They work closely with the military in the fields, and during that, there is a fair chance that they might expose to tear gas.
This article will explore why dogs are not immune to tear gas and how much exposure they can tolerate before it becomes harmful.
Table of Contents
What is Tear Gas?
Tear gas, also known as CS gas, is a chemical compound that causes irritation and inflammation to the eyes, skin, and lungs. It is classified as a non-lethal weapon but can be harmful if inhaled in large quantities or if exposure lasts for an extended period. Tear gas can also be used as self-defense by people. Tear gas is also called a riot control agent and is often used to disperse crowds during a protest.
Chemicals in the tear gas react with the sensory nerve receptors that can cause pain and discomfort in the eyes. Many pieces of evidence report about the long-term effects of tear gas, mainly from high doses. If tear gas is used for a long time indoors, it can negatively impact human and animal health.
Tear gas has been used in warfare, riot control, and law enforcement since the early 1900s.
Are Dogs Immune To Tear Gas?
Dogs are not immune to the effects of tear gas, but they are less sensitive to it than humans. The main difference is that dogs have a much better sense of smell than we do. This means that they can be exposed to higher concentrations of tear gas without suffering the same level of irritation and inflammation. However, dogs can still be harmed by exposure to tear gas, and it is essential to know how much exposure they can tolerate before it becomes dangerous.
Read Also: What can make a dog go blind overnight
Side Effects Of Tear Gas On Dogs
Tear gas is also harmful to dogs, although the symptoms are generally less severe. The most common side effects of tear gas on dogs are
- Coughing
- Difficulty in breathing
- Wheezing
- Gasping
- Burning in the throat
What to do if Your Dog is exposed to Tear Gas
If you think your dog has been exposed to tear gas, it is essential to seek veterinary care immediately. Tear gas can be very harmful to dogs, and even exposure to small amounts can cause serious health problems.
If you are ever in a situation where tear gas is being used, it is essential to protect your dog’s eyes and nose from exposure. You can do this by covering their head with a towel or piece of clothing. If you are caught in a tear gas attack, it is also essential to get away from the area quickly.
Dogs get exposed to tear gas during training or a field day. Whether you work in a police station with a dog or live in a house with a dog as a pet, you should know what to do if your dog is exposed to tear gas.
Here are some tips you can use in such conditions.
- Flush the Eyes: Dogs when feel irritate with tear gas starts to run here and there in anxiety. First take them out of the area and hold their head. Clean their eyes with the fresh water and repeat the process until they feel better.
- Many chemicals present in the tear gas can seep into the clothes and also through the fur. These chemicals can also penetrate into the skin of your dog so have to give them proper bath if they get exposed to the tear gas
- If your dog gets exposed to the tear gas don’t clean them with hot water. Hot water can open up the pores and make the stinging sensation so worse. If you don’t have any cold water available then just wipe off their face and skin
- Use a towel to wipe down the skin of your dog and then wiped down their body with another rag soaked in alcohol. Be careful while wiping their eyes.
How do you know that your dog is exposed to tear gas?
If you have a suspicion that your dog might get exposed to the tear gas, make sure before starting any treatment. Here are some steps that can help you identify the symptoms associated with tear gas.
1. Monitor your Dog Vitals
The first thing you can do is to make sure whether your dog is exposed to the tear gas or not. Maybe you live in an area where police have to use tear gas to disperse crowds. Notice if your dog went outside and got exposed to the tear gas. If your dog shows symptoms, immediately take him to the vet and treat him. It is not suitable for your dog’s health if gas remains inside its body.
2. Watch for Signs of Discomfort
Look for any sign of discomfort in your dog if you have a suspicion that they get exposed by the tear gas. Look for any digestive issues such as stomach disorders. If your dog breathes in the tear gas for so long, they start to have problems breathing. Tear gas also causes symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, etc.
Don’t let your dog untreated if they inhale the tear gas because it can be fatal to their health. Tear gas is more dangerous to humans than dogs, and dogs have a high tolerance, but it is good to use some measures as a Precaution.
Read Also: How to put ear drops in an agressive dog
Article Reference: Microsoft Word – ANIMALS AND GAS EXPOSURE.docx (worldanimalprotection.us)
