Even though the aloe vera plant is known for its therapeutic qualities it s toxic to dogs.
Aloe bad for dogs.
Using aloe vera for dogs skin will never cause problems since it has multiple benefits for our pets.
Applying aloe vera gel to minor scrapes and sores however can safely hasten their healing.
Since your dog is just a puppy he will not be able to tolerate the toxins in the plant as an adult dog is able to.
If you want to use your own plant carefully scoop out the gel and use only that portion of the leaf.
So in answer to this reader s email aloe isn t really poisonous although some gels and whole leaf applications should be used with caution if being used internally.
Avoid the yellow or orange sap found in the whole rind.
In the natural health bible for dogs and cats veterinarian shawn messonnier notes that eating aloe vera can result in severe diarrhea for your dog.
To be sure the latex is removed purchase a food grade aloe or avoid whole leaf products and your dog should be just fine.
Other poisoning effects of aloe vera on your eat anything dog are darkened urine muscle spasms and weight loss.
Aloe contains saponins elements that have a toxic effect on dogs if they eat them.
Aloe vera poisoning in dogs will cause only mild to moderate symptoms in most dogs and it is widely regarded as one of the less dangerous toxic plants a dog might ingest particularly when they don t ingest any of the latex part of the plant.
If he just chewed on the plant he may have an upset stomach or diarrhea for a day or so and return to normal once his system has cleansed to toxin out.
Actually a lot of indoor plants can be dangerous for dogs and other pets.
Aloe vera which is from the aloaceae family is a common houseplant aloes contain anthraquinone glycosides which are purgatives medications that encourage bowel movements.
Adapting the properties mentioned in the above section of the article to the dogs.
We will see that aloe vera is very useful for the following cases.
Properties and benefits of aloe vera for dogs.
When ingested these glycosides are metabolized by intestinal bacteria forming compounds that increase mucus production and water in the colon.
Avoid aloe if your dog has liver and kidney disease as well as pregnant or lactating dogs.
If a large amount of the plant is eaten your dog may experience vomiting diarrhea loss of appetite depression and urinary changes.
When splitting open a leaf the saponins will be easy to spot.
However dogs should not be given the whole leaves of the aloe vera plant.
Check the label on your commercially prepared aloe gel to ensure it doesn t have any additives that can irritate your dog s skin or isn t harmful if ingested pure aloe gel formulas should contain just the gel.
How dangerous is aloe vera to dogs.
The leaves contain saponins glycosides and other compounds that are mildly toxic for domestic animals.
Aloe vera poisoning in dogs can ultimately result in coma.