Chemical Burns

Chemical Injury

Chemical injuries to tissues are caused by contact with harmful chemicals such are acids, alkalis, and strong cleaning agents. Also called “Chemical Burns”, they can be similar to thermal (heat) burns and treatments can be complex and last many weeks. Prompt removal of the chemical agent and rapid veterinary attention can help minimise the injury and the speed of healing.

What To Do

Wash the contaminated area with large volumes of tepid flowing water for at least 15 minutes.

In the case of dry chemicals, brush them away carefully, taking care to protect the eyes, nose and mouth of both yourself and your dog.

If the chemical is in the eye, flush the eye with large volumes of water or contact lens solutions for 15 minutes (see below for saline recipe).

Seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.

Avoid being bitten by using a muzzle on your dog if you think there is a risk of being bitten.

Make sure the area or room is well ventilated as some chemicals can release strong fumes.

What Not To Do

Do not apply neutralising agents to the skin or eyes. They can cause a chemical reaction that produces head and cause further injury to tissues.

Do not immerse your dog in non-flowing water, if a dry chemical has spilled on them. These dry chemicals are usually activated by water. The water must be flowing in order to rinse the chemical away.

Saline Solution

Pure water can be quite irritating to the eyes and raw skin. It is much more comfortable for your dog to use saline.

Simply dissolve 9 grams of salt in 1 litre of water (cooed boiled water)

Or

Dissolve 2 tablespoons of salt in 2 ¼ pints of tepid water. (tepid boiled water)