Dogs can get poison ivy, but it is relatively rare. The fur generally protects most dogs from the rash-causing oil urushiol found in poison ivy. However, dogs with thin or short coats, or those with exposed skin like on the belly, are more susceptible to developing rashes. The biggest risk for dogs is ingesting poison ivy, which can lead to gastrointestinal upset or in rare cases, severe allergic reactions like anaphylactic shock. Signs of poison ivy exposure in dogs include red, swollen skin, itching, blisters, vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing. Owners should monitor dogs for symptoms and consult a veterinarian if ingestion or severe reactions occur. Additionally, urushiol can linger on a dog's fur and potentially transfer to humans, so cleaning the dog and avoiding exposure is important.
