Ethanol Toxicosis in Dogs

Ethanol poisoning (toxicosis) occurs from exposure to the chemical ethanol, either orally or through the skin, and results most commonly in a depression of the central nervous system -- expressed in the animal as drowsiness, lack of coordination or unconsciousness. Other effects may include damage to body cells, and symptoms such as incontinence, slowed heart rate, and even heart attack.

Ethanol poisoning is seen frequently in dogs, and occurs due to exposure to dyes, inks, disinfectants, mouthwashes, paints, perfumes, pharmaceuticals, gasoline, and certain beverages.

Symptoms and Types

Symptoms of ethanol poisoning vary depending on the amount ingested, and whether the dog's stomach is full or empty. The main symptom is a depressed central nervous system, which may develop 15 to 30 minutes after ingestion on an empty stomach, and up to two hours later when ingested on a full stomach.

Other symptoms include urinating or defecating involuntarily. Higher doses of ethanol ingestion can lead to behavioral changes ranging from depression to excitement, decreased body temperature (hypothermia), slow reflexes, and flatulence if bread dough is the source of ethanol (see causes, below). Signs of advanced ethanol poisoning include depression, slowed breathing and heart rate, an increase in total body acid (metabolic acidosis), and heart attack. If left untreated, this can result in the dog's death.

Symptoms of ethanol poisoning may also be similar to early stages of antifreeze (ethylene glycol) poisoning.

Causes

Ethanol poisoning can occur from ingesting a variety of products. Fermented products such as bread dough and rotten apples, which dogs may find in the garbage, may be one case. Other accidental instances may occur from spilled beverages, commercial products, or medications containing alcohol. Exposure of alcohol-containing products through the skin is also possible.

Some cases of intentional ethanol poisoning have been reported, as dogs may readily consume alcoholic beverages if offered by an owner unaware of the consequences.

Diagnosis

Ethanol poisoning can be diagnosed via blood tests measuring blood-ethanol concentration. A urine test for low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) may also point to ethanol poisoning, as well as a pH test measuring for heightened acid levels in the body.

Treatment

Appropriate treatment for ethanol poisoning varies depending on the severity of symptoms displayed. Intravenous (IV) fluids should be provided for dehydration, and medication may be administered to alleviate central nervous system depression, as well as to inhibit the metabolism of alcohol.

In more severe cases, if your dog is having respiratory problems, artificial ventilation to aid breathing, such as with an oxygen mask, may be necessary. If a heart attack has occurred, cardiac therapy should be attended to first.

Living and Management

If the initial treatment is successful, symptoms should be alleviated within eight to twelve hours. Your veterinarian will follow up the initial treatment by continuing to measure blood and urine pH levels, and checking for evidence of abnormally high body acidity until the period of danger has passed.

Prevention

Ethanol poisoning can only be prevented by ensuring that your dog is not exposed to products containing ethanol. Paints, perfumes, mouthwashes, fermented foods, and other products containing ethanol should be kept out of your dog's reach – preferably locked in cabinets or in secure containers.

inhibit To slow something down or cause it to stop

metabolism The group of processes that involve the use of nutrients by the body

hypothermia A body temperature that is too low

hypoglycemia Low amounts of glucose in the blood

dehydration A medical condition in which the body has lost fluid or water in excessive amounts