[ATTENTION] Before reading this article, if your dog has ingested toxic material, please call the animal poison control line immediately – (888) 426-4435
Beagles are naturally curious creatures that love to explore their surroundings and eat anything they can get their paws on.
This often includes items that can be harmful if ingested, such as nail polish.
Nail polish is a common household item that can be extremely toxic to dogs, as some variants contain chemicals such as formaldehyde, toluene, and phthalates.
These toxic substances can cause serious health problems and even death if they are ingested in large quantities.
If you are a dog owner, it is important to be aware of the dangers of nail polish and what to do if your dog accidentally ingests it.
In this article I will provide information on the toxicity of nail polish, what to do if your beagle eats nail polish, what not to do, and the symptoms of nail polish poisoning in beagles.
I will also cover non-toxic nail polishes to consider as an extra way to keep your beagle safe.
Is Nail Polish Toxic to Dogs?
Nail polish is a toxic substance for dogs and can cause serious health problems if ingested.
The chemicals found in nail polish, such as formaldehyde, toluene, and phthalates, can be harmful to dogs and cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, lethargy, loss of appetite, seizures, and uncoordinated movements.
The severity of the symptoms will depend on the amount of nail polish ingested, the size of the dog, and the overall health of the dog.
Formaldehyde is a carcinogenic substance that can cause damage to the respiratory system, skin, and eyes.
Toluene is a toxic chemical that can cause central nervous system depression and liver and kidney damage. Phthalates are endocrine disruptors that can cause reproductive and developmental problems.
However nail polish isn’t only bad for beagles if ingested, it’s also an irritant to the skin and fur.
If a dog comes into contact with wet nail polish, it can cause skin irritation and redness.
The chemical fumes from nail polish can also be irritating to a dog’s eyes, nose, and respiratory system.
If you are applying nail polish around your dog, it is important to make sure that they are in a well-ventilated area and to keep them away from the fumes.
What Should You Do If Your Beagle Eats Nail Polish?
First and foremost, if you know for certain that your beagle has ingested a toxic substance, call the animal poison control line – (888) 426-4435.
Here are some additional steps you can take:
- Call a poison control center:
The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center is available 24/7 for animal poison-related emergencies.
Contact them at (888) 426-4435 and provide them with information about the type and amount of nail polish ingested, as well as the size and weight of your dog.
- Call Your Primary Veterinarian Immediately:
Calling a veterinarian immediately after your beagle ingests nail polish is critical.
Time is of the essence in these situations, as early intervention can often make a significant difference in the outcome.
Your veterinarian is best equipped to assess the situation and provide the appropriate treatment.
They will be able to determine the severity of the situation based on factors such as the type and amount of nail polish ingested, the size and weight of your dog, and the length of time that has elapsed since the ingestion occurred.
When you call the vet, it is important to provide them with as much information as possible about the incident, including the type and amount of nail polish ingested, as well as the size and weight of your dog.
This information will help the vet determine the best course of action and provide the appropriate treatment.
In some cases, your vet may instruct you to bring your dog in for an immediate appointment, or they may refer you to an animal hospital for more advanced treatment.
- Bring a sample of the nail polish to the vet or hospital:
Bringing a sample of the nail polish to the veterinary appointment can be helpful in the assessment and treatment of your beagle.
The exact composition of the nail polish can impact the severity of the toxicity, and having a sample of the exact product ingested can help the veterinarian determine the appropriate course of action.
For example, certain types of nail polishes contain chemicals that can be more toxic to dogs, such as formaldehyde and toluene.
Having a sample of the nail polish can help the vet determine if these or other potentially toxic chemicals are present, allowing them to provide more targeted treatment.
In addition, the sample can also help the veterinarian identify any other substances that may have been mixed in with the nail polish, such as perfumes or other chemicals that may be harmful to dogs.
It is important to keep the sample of the nail polish in a secure and easily transportable container, such as a plastic bag or small container.
Be sure to label the sample with your dog’s name, the date and time of ingestion, and any other relevant information that may be helpful to the vet.
- Keep your beagle calm:
Keeping your beagle calm after they have ingested nail polish is important for several reasons.
Stress and anxiety can increase the heart rate and blood pressure, which can exacerbate any potential toxicity and make the situation worse.
Additionally, a frightened or stressed dog may be more likely to struggle or resist treatment, making it more difficult for the veterinarian to assess the situation and provide appropriate care.
To help keep your dog calm, it is important to remain calm and composed yourself. Speak to your dog in a soft, reassuring tone, and try to keep them in a quiet, relaxed environment.
Avoid overstimulating them, as this can increase their stress levels and make the situation worse.
You may also consider wrapping your dog in a blanket or using a calming product, such as a pheromone diffuser, to help soothe and calm them.
It is also important to keep your dog as still as possible, as excessive movement can make the situation worse and increase the risk of toxicity.
- Monitor your beagle
Monitoring your beagle after they have ingested nail polish is an important step in ensuring their health and well-being.
Observing your dog’s behavior and physical symptoms can help you determine the severity of the situation and whether or not additional treatment is necessary.
Some of the signs to watch for include:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy or depression
- Increased thirst
- Increased urination
- Changes in heart rate or breathing
- Disorientation or confusion
- Seizures or tremors
- Changes in behavior or temperament
If you notice any of these symptoms, or if your dog is showing signs of discomfort or distress, it is important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible.
Your veterinarian may also advise you to continue monitoring your dog for any other symptoms that may develop and report them promptly.
In some cases, nail polish toxicity can cause more serious health problems, such as organ failure, so it is important to be vigilant and seek veterinary care if you have any concerns.
What Not To Do If Your Beagle Eats Nail Polish
It is important to be aware of what not to do if your beagle has ingested nail polish, as certain actions can make the situation worse or impede proper treatment. Some of the things to avoid include:
- Don’t induce vomiting:
Inducing vomiting can be dangerous and is not recommended unless specifically instructed to do so by a veterinarian or poison control specialist.
In some cases, inducing vomiting can cause further harm and make the situation worse.
Nail polish contains chemicals that can be irritating to the digestive system, and inducing vomiting can cause these chemicals to be expelled into the esophagus and other parts of the digestive tract, leading to further irritation and damage.
Additionally, inducing vomiting can also be dangerous if the nail polish has already been absorbed into the bloodstream.
In these cases, inducing vomiting can cause the chemicals to be expelled back into the bloodstream, leading to more serious health problems.
- Do not administer human medications
Administrating human medications to your beagle if they have ingested nail polish can be extremely dangerous and should be avoided at all costs.
Many over-the-counter medications and prescription drugs that are safe for humans can be toxic to dogs, causing serious harm and even death.
For example, certain pain relievers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can cause serious harm to dogs, including stomach ulcers, kidney failure, and even death.
Antihistamines, commonly used to treat allergies in humans, can also be toxic to dogs and cause serious side effects, such as seizures, heart problems, and death.
Even if a medication seems like it might help, it is important not to administer it to your dog without first consulting with a veterinarian.
A veterinarian is trained to understand the specific needs and physiology of dogs, and can advise you on the best course of action based on the specifics of your dog’s situation.
- Do not feed your dog or give them water
If your beagle has ingested nail polish, it is important not to feed them or give them water until they have seen a veterinarian.
This is because consuming food or water can cause further digestive distress and can make the situation worse.
When a dog ingests a toxic substance, it can cause irritation and inflammation in the digestive tract, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
By avoiding food and water, you can help prevent the spread of any toxins and allow the digestive tract to rest and heal.
Additionally, if your dog is experiencing nausea or vomiting, giving them food or water can make these symptoms worse, leading to further digestive distress and potentially spreading the toxins throughout their body.
It is also important to note that if your dog is unconscious or in a state of shock, it is not safe to give them anything by mouth, as this can cause choking or inhaling of the substance into their lungs.
- Do not rely on home remedies
If your beagle has ingested nail polish, it is important not to rely on home remedies as a treatment option.
While some home remedies may seem like they could help, they can actually make the situation worse and delay proper veterinary care.
For example, some people may suggest giving your dog activated charcoal, baking soda, or vinegar as a home remedy to help absorb the toxins.
However, these remedies have not been scientifically proven to be effective and can cause further harm to your dog’s digestive system.
In addition, some home remedies can be toxic to dogs, such as the use of essential oils or certain herbs. These remedies can cause serious side effects, including vomiting, diarrhea, and even death.
Ultimately, you should leave the action to medical professionals, who are trained to handle these sorts of situations, in order to give your dog the best chance at a perfect recovery.
- Don’t lose your cool
It is important not to lose your cool and remain calm. This can help you make better decisions and ensure the safety and well-being of your pet.
When a pet ingests a toxic substance, it can be a stressful and overwhelming situation. However, panicking or becoming overly emotional can make the situation worse and potentially harm your dog.
It is important to remember that pets can sense their owner’s emotions and can become stressed or scared if their owner is panicked.
This can cause further health problems and make the situation more difficult to manage.
Non-Toxic Nail Polishes
These polishes are specifically designed to be safe for use and are made without harmful chemicals that can be toxic to pets and humans.
Non-toxic nail polishes are typically made with natural ingredients, such as plant-based dyes, vitamins, and minerals.
They do not contain harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and phthalates, which are known to cause health problems.
These polishes are also safe for use on children and are a great alternative for pet owners who are concerned about the health and safety of their pets.
It is important to note that while non-toxic nail polishes are a safer alternative, they should still be stored out of reach of pets and children. This will help prevent accidental ingestion or skin irritation.
- Abitzon NonToxic Nail Polish Set
- Jolie Vegan Nail Polish – PETA Certified
- Karma Organic Natural Nail Polish
Final Thoughts
If your beagle has ingested nail polish, it is important to take immediate action.
Contact a veterinarian or poison control center for guidance and seek veterinary care as soon as possible.
It is important to monitor your pet for symptoms of nail polish poisoning and to keep your pet calm and comfortable.
Avoid inducing vomiting, feeding your pet, giving them water, administering human medications, and relying on home remedies.
Non-toxic nail polishes are a safer alternative to traditional nail polishes and can provide peace of mind for pet owners who are concerned about the health and safety of their pets.