Pet Safety with Vaping
Vaping involves inhaling an aerosol mixture of questionable chemicals known as “e-juice” that has been heated by a battery-powered device. Vape ingredients are composed of nicotine, glycerin, formaldehyde, and sometimes THC. The risks of vaping for humans are similar to cigarette smoking, as you are inhaling nicotine and toxic chemicals. With vaping, toxic metals have also been found in the vapor. If your pet is inhaling the “smoke” it increases their risk of developing respiratory problems and certain types of cancer.
The Greatest Risk
Although it isn’t healthy for your pets to breathe in the vape smoke, there is a larger concern at hand. If your dog manages to chew on your e-cigarette and ingest some of the fluid, you will have a serious situation on your hands. Know where your vaping pen is at all times and keep it completely out of reach of your pets.
Nicotine is Toxic to Pets
The liquid in your vaping pen may have a sweet smell to it. This may make it tempting for your dog to sniff or lick. If your dog ingests e-liquid, pay attention to signs of possible nicotine poisoning to appear within 15 to 30 minutes. If any of the following symptoms appear, head to your closest veterinary clinic so your dog can receive treatment for nicotine poisoning:
- Rapid breathing
- High heart rate
- Muscle weakness
- Vomiting
- Drooling
- Diarrhea
- Respiratory depression
- Seizures
Swallowing the Casing and Battery is Also Dangerous
Not only is the e-liquid dangerous if swallowed, but the casing and battery are also. Objects such as these are not digestible and can cause injury or become an intestinal blockage. If your dog swallows the rechargeable battery, it can possibly burn the esophagus.
Xylitol: Another Toxic Ingredient for Pets
Xylitol is a popular ingredient because it is used as a sweetener. That is always why you have to look out for it in ingredient lists. Xylitol is toxic to dogs and cats, and it is found in e-juice, as well as nicotine gum. Liver damage and a drop in blood sugar may result if your pet ingests it.
Preventing a Toxic Situation for Your Pets
- To stop your pets from having to breathe in vape smoke, choose a separate area of the home to vape, or simply go outside instead.
- When it is time to throw away vape items, be sure they are in a lidded trash container that can’t be opened by your pets.
- Keep all vape pens and oils in a drawer or other inaccessible location for your pets.
Final Word
If you believe that your dog has ingested e-liquid, contact your veterinarian immediately. You may also choose to contact Pet Poison Helpline at 800-213-6680, but there is a fee of $65 per incident.