Dogs Exposed to Lawn Chemicals May Have Higher Risk of Bladder Cancer
Dogs exposed to lawn and garden chemicals appear to have a higher chance of developing bladder cancer according to a new study. Certain breeds were also identified as having a higher risk because of the high genetic propensity for bladder cancer.
Discovery News reports that a scientific paper included in the July 2013 issue of Science of the Total Environment found that dogs are ingesting, inhaling and exposed to the chemicals through contact with treated grass and plants. The researchers also found that wind could carry the chemicals to untreated properties up to 50 feet away, exposing dogs to the chemicals. Once dogs are contaminated they can transfer the chemical residue to their owners.
The chemicals are common herbicides containing the following: 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), 4-chloro-2- methylphenoxypropionic acid (MCPP) and/or dicamba.
Lead author Deborah Knapp of Purdue University’s Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, told Discovery News that dogs could directly ingest the chemicals that they come in contact with by licking their paws and fur.
“Dogs can pick up the chemicals on their paws and their fur,” Knapp said. “They can then track the chemicals inside the house, leaving chemicals on the floor or furniture. In addition, if the dog has chemicals on its fur, the pet owner could come in contact with the chemicals when they pet or hold the dog.”
The scientists pointed out that Scottish terriers, West Highland white terriers, Shetland sheepdogs, beagles and wire hair fox terriers are all at particular risk because these breeds have a high genetic propensity for bladder cancer.
Researchers said that the study has important implications for human health as well as for animal health as 2,4-D is a widely used broad leaf herbicide. They would like to conduct further studies.
The researchers suggest that if owners still must use herbicides, they should follow manufacturer guidelines, allow gardens and lawns to dry before allowing pets out, wash their dog’s feet each time the dog comes inside, and consider treating different areas around the home at different times to limit exposure.
More information on herbicides and pesticides can be found here:
Read more about Garden safety for your dog in our article: Garden and yard safety for your dog