What should I do if my dog has been pepper sprayed?

Yesterday during our walk, my dog accidentally got pepper sprayed by a passerby who was protecting themselves from another loose dog. Since then, she’s been rubbing her eyes constantly and seems really uncomfortable. I’ve tried to rinse her eyes with water, but I’m not sure if that’s enough. Is there something specific I should be doing to help her, or do I need to take her to a vet right away?

Answer

If your dog was accidentally pepper-sprayed, it's important to take action promptly to help relieve her discomfort and prevent further irritation.

  • Rinsing her eyes with cool, clean water is a good first step.
  • Encourage her to blink frequently to help wash out the irritant.
  • If symptoms persist beyond a few hours, or if you notice redness, swelling, or discharge, seek veterinary care.

While rinsing with water can remove some of the irritant, pepper spray is an inflammatory agent, and your dog may need additional help to soothe her eyes and prevent complications like corneal damage. Veterinary intervention can help ensure her safety and comfort.

Wondering what to do next? Visit Dial A Vet to book a consultation with a veterinary professional.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What should I do immediately after my dog has been pepper-sprayed?

    Rinse her eyes gently with cool, clean water for several minutes. Ensure she blinks frequently to help flush the irritant out.

  • Is it normal for my dog to keep pawing at her eyes after being pepper-sprayed?

    Rubbing at her eyes indicates discomfort and irritation, which is normal. However, if this persists or worsens, it's advisable to consult a veterinarian.

  • When should I take my dog to the vet?

    If her symptoms do not improve with rinsing, or if redness, swelling, or discharge appears, see a vet as soon as possible to prevent further complications.

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