Arsenic Poisoning in Dogs: Causes and Treatment

Arsenic poisoning occurs when dogs are accidentally exposed to this dangerous metal.  

It is life threatening, and affected dogs need quick veterinary care.    

Learn what you need to know about arsenic poisoning in dogs, including how it happens, what symptoms to watch for, how it’s diagnosed, and what treatments are available.  

What Is Arsenic Poisoning in Dogs?

Arsenic is a naturally occurring heavy metal found in various household products, such as pesticides or herbicides, and in some areas of water and soil.  

Dogs become exposed through accidental inhalation (breathing in), ingestion (swallowing), or skin contact.  

Affected dogs have damage to their intestines, liver, and kidneys, which causes symptoms such as diarrhea, lack of coordination, and dehydration.  

Fortunately, arsenic poisoning is rare in dogs. However, it is a medical emergency.  

After exposure, dogs can become ill quickly and need immediate veterinary care.  

Sudden death can occur even if a dog is not showing symptoms.  

If you think your dog has been exposed, bring him to a veterinarian or call the Pet Poison Helpline right away. 

Symptoms of Arsenic Poisoning in Dogs

Symptoms can develop within a couple of hours after exposure but are sometimes  delayed up to 24 hours, depending on the amount of arsenic.  

Symptoms of arsenic poisoning may include:  

• Abdominal pain 
• Watery diarrhea (may include blood or mucus) 
• Lack of coordination 
• Weakness 
• Excessive drooling 
• Dry, pale gums 
• Lethargy 
• Weight loss 
• Sudden death 

Causes of Arsenic Poisoning in Dogs

Arsenic is found in many household products and in the environment, which creates various opportunities for a dog to be exposed.  

Arsenic poisoning can happen after exposure to the following:  

• Contaminated food, water, or soil  
• Pesticides or fertilizers  
• Treated wood  

Arsenic poisoning is more common in puppies less than 6 months of age, likely due to their smaller size and their curiosity.  

Pets who live in agricultural areas and have exposure to groundwater runoff are more likely to get arsenic poisoning as well.  

How Veterinarians Diagnose Arsenic Poisoning in Dogs

Veterinarians diagnose arsenic poisoning using a combination of a thorough history from the pet parent, a physical exam, and diagnostic testing.  

The vet will want to know if your dog has had any exposure to household products containing arsenic, such as medications or chemicals.  

Let your vet know if your dog has had any recent travel and what type of environment your dog normally lives in. 

A veterinarian will complete a head-to-toe exam to find obvious abnormalities, such as stumbling when walking or dry gums.  

If arsenic poisoning is suspected, diagnostic testing can be done, which can include: 

• Blood work: A sample of blood can be used to look for abnormalities, such as blood loss or changes to liver and kidney function.  
• Urinalysis: A small sample of urine can be tested for arsenic, which is discharged in urine for several days after exposure. 
• Stomach content testing: A sample of your dog’s vomit can be tested in a lab for the presence and amount of arsenic.  
• Hair samples: Some of the dog’s fur can be sent to a lab for heavy-metal testing. This is more common in dogs who may have had long-term exposure.  
• Post-mortem exam: If a dog has died suddenly after exposure, samples from the dog’s stomach, liver, or kidneys can be surgically removed and sent to a lab for a post-mortem diagnosis.  

Treatment of Arsenic Poisoning in Dogs

Arsenic poisoning is curable if treated early.  

There’s a better outcome if treatment is started before symptoms begin, but dogs with symptoms can still recover with the right treatment.  

Treatment of arsenic poisoning consists of symptom control, decontamination, and supportive care.  

Your vet may recommend the following treatments:  

• Induced vomiting to get the arsenic out of the stomach before absorption 
• Activated charcoal to bind arsenic in the body so it can be removed in the stool  
• Intravenous (IV) fluids to counteract dehydration and blood loss  
• Stomach pumping to flush out arsenic from the stomach  
• Blood transfusions to restore blood that has been lost internally or in diarrhea  
• Chelators, such as penicillamine, to bind to and remove arsenic from the body 

• Hospitalization and checking liver and kidney values 

Recovery and Management of Arsenic Poisoning in Dogs

Recovery typically depends on the amount of arsenic that the dog was exposed to.  

After quick treatment, dogs who have contacted, inhaled, or ingested a small amount can recover within hours to days.  

However, if a dog has been exposed to a large amount at once or has had long-term exposure over time, it can take several weeks for them to fully recover.  

During your dog’s recovery, it is important to give any medications exactly as prescribed by your vet and to go to all follow-up appointments to check your dog’s progress. 

Prevention of Arsenic Poisoning in Dogs

Pet parents can take the following steps to help keep their dogs safe from arsenic:  

• Do not allow your dog to drink standing water, such as from puddles or in ditches.  
• Keep household chemicals and fertilizers securely out of reach of your dog.  
• Ensure your dog does not eat or lick any contaminated food or plants that have been sprayed with pesticides.  
• Bring your dog to a veterinarian regularly for well-care visits to support their overall health and well-being.