Many products we regularly use that we deem safe for humans are commonly used on our pets too. One such item is Vaseline but is it entirely safe? Can you use Vaseline on your dogs, and if so, how should you do it safely?
It isn’t recommended to use Vaseline on your dog without consulting with your vet beforehand. As safe as Vaseline can be, it is not the best solution for every problem because certain situations require medical attention.
If you’re wondering about these questions, keep reading to find out if you can use Vaseline on your pets and more.
What is Vaseline?
Vaseline is a type of petroleum jelly first discovered during the 1800s. It is derived as a by-product of oil refining. It was first used as a remedy for cuts and burns but over time, people have discovered many other uses for this versatile product.
Vaseline is popularly used as a moisturizer as it creates a barrier on the skin that locks in moisture. It is an excellent choice for people with dry or chapped skin as well as those who live in a dry or cold climate. Vaseline is also preferred by many as it is cost-effective and available in almost every drugstore.
Additionally, Vaseline helps treat minor cuts and soothe burns as it keeps the wound moist and protected. It also speeds up the healing process and reduces the risk of infection. Many people swear by its effectiveness but is it safe to use on your dog?
Can I Use Vaseline on My Dogs?
Vaseline is hypoallergenic so it is unlikely to cause an allergic reaction in most people or animals.
One of the leading reasons why the use of Vaseline is discouraged is because application on the skin is safe but not so much when ingested. Many pets lick themselves, especially their wounds, and can accidentally lick the Vaseline too. While this seems harmless, it can cause gastrointestinal upset and even diarrhea.
Aside from the digestive issues, many pet owners apply Vaseline on the paws of their dogs during the winter to keep them moisturized but this is not always the best hack. If your dog has open wounds or skin conditions, applying Vaseline can actually make the situation worse. We know Vaseline is a great moisturizer but trapping all that moisture can cause bacterial infection and become septic.
If you want to use Vaseline to heal wounds or injured areas on your, it is advised to consult your vet to get proper treatment. If you still wish to put Vaseline, there are certain ways you can do it so it doesn’t harm your pet.
How to Safely Put Vaseline on My Dog?
The common reasons people use Vaseline on their dogs are dry skin, dry noses, and dry paws. Allergies and hyperkeratosis. While it is recommended to use other oil-based balms, you can use Vaseline safely on your dogs in the following ways.
- Clean the affected area: Before applying Vaseline, clean the affected area with a water or pet-safe cleanser to remove any dirt which can cause an infection.
- Dry the area: Pat dry or air dry the cleaned area before applying Vaseline. Damp skin can retain moisture which can easily become the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and germs to grow.
- Use only a thin layer: A small dab of Vaseline is more than enough to do the trick. Apply very carefully a thin layer on the paws of your dog. Vaseline is sticky, it is best to apply it before going out for a walk, that way his paws are moisturized and the floors of your house are clean too.
- Keep your dog from licking: It is almost impossible to stop your dogs from licking their wounds as it is their natural instinct. However, you can create a barrier that can stop them from licking the Vaseline. Consider using a cone or other protective device to prevent your dog from licking the area. Also, if the infected or wounded area is the body, shave off the part to prevent infection this way you can easily apply Vaseline and patch it with gauze.
- Monitor the situation: There are unfortunate cases when some animals react negatively to Vaseline. The best action plan in scenarios like this is to keep a close eye. Observe if there is any redness or swelling. If your pet shows clear signs of distress immediately wash off the Vaseline from the applied area.
What Are the Alternatives to Vaseline?
The best alternatives to Vaseline would be the vet-approved balms and oils in the market. These products are designed to heal any ailments while keeping your little friends safe.
Most of them are harmless even when ingested so you can apply them directly but it is not a bad idea to monitor them afterward.
If you’re looking for a more DIY approach with natural ingredients, you can try the following ideas:
- Oatmeal baths for itchy and inflamed skin.
- Baking soda and water mixture in a ratio of 1:1, or water and apple cider vinegar mixture also in a ratio of 1:1 for itchy skin.
- Peel the skin of Aloe Vera and apply the gel on scorched or inflamed areas for relief.
Conclusion
Vaseline can be a useful product for a variety of purposes but when it comes to using it on your fuzzy buddies it is essential to be cautious. While Vaseline is not toxic for dogs, it is crucial to consult with your vet before taking action for your dog’s specific needs.
Remember, your dog’s skin is delicate and requires special care. Vaseline may work well for many ailments but it is not a cure-all.
Moreover, using the wrong products can actually worsen the situation. Take the time to learn the best way to take care of your dog and this will ensure they stay healthy and happy for years to come.
Some of My Favorite Products For Dog Owners
I hope this article has helped you just a bit in everyday life as a dog owner. Being a dog owner for more than 25 years, I’ve tried many different products with varying success, but these products below are some that I can highly recommend to every dog and their owner without hesitation!
These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. But it’s products that I use daily myself, and I have the utmost praise for.
Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. But since 2015 when the company was founded, I’ve been using Ollie Petfood. With their product being tailor-made to suit every dog’s specific needs, and as my dogs love the product, I’m pretty sure I’ve found a product I will continue to use for many years more. If you use my link you can get 50% off your first order.
Dog Training: If you’ve ever owned a puppy, you know that it requires a lot of training to grow into a well-behaved adult. Brain Training for Dogs has helped me immensely with the mental training part of raising a dog, and it’s something I strongly recommend you consider.
Grooming: If you have a dog in your home, you’re going to need a brush, and for this, I recommend a Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush. For that price, you simply can’t beat this brush for everyday grooming.
If you’re looking for the most up-to-date recommendations, check out my recommended products section that I’ve created to help every dog owner!
