Are Scented Candles Toxic to Dogs?

Adding fragrance to a room with scented candles has been a popular tradition for decades. As the candle market has grown, natural, eco-friendly, and aromatic candles, have become increasingly popular. For pet owners, scented candles pose an important question: are they safe for dogs? 

Are scented candles bad for dogs?

 

There is no simple answer to this question. Several candles contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs if they are inhaled or consumed. There is also the possibility that some dogs may be allergic to the fragrance of candles. Because of this, you should consider the ingredients of candles and how they might affect your pet. 

Today, we are going to take a look at the ins and outs to determine if a candle is safe for your furry friend so that you can protect every member of your family! 

What Makes a Candle Toxic to Dogs? 

Scent candles contain wax as one of their main ingredients. Dogs can ingest small amounts of wax without experiencing any digestive issues, but large amounts can cause vomiting or diarrhea. It's also important to be mindful of the type of wax used in candles. Some candles are made from paraffin wax, which can release toxic fumes when burned. To reduce the risk of toxic exposure, opt for candles made from beeswax, soy wax, or coconut wax.  

Paraffin wax candles contain volatile organic compounds like benzene and toluene, which can have a negative impact on human and pet health when inhaled. On the other hand, Beeswax, soy wax, and coconut wax candles don't contain these compounds and are considered safer alternatives, at Smells, all of our candles are made with premium soy wax. 

Another important ingredient in scented candles is fragrance oil. Some fragrance oils contain essential oils, which can be toxic to dogs. For example, tea tree oil and eucalyptus oil are known to be toxic to dogs and can cause skin irritation, vomiting, and even liver damage. To reduce the risk of toxicity, choose candles that use natural fragrances like lavender, vanilla, or cinnamon 

Be Mindful of How You Burn Them 

In addition to the ingredients in scented candles, it's also important to consider how they are used. Burning candles in a small, poorly ventilated room can increase the risk of toxic exposure to both you and your dog. If you must burn candles, make sure to do so in a well-ventilated room, and never leave candles burning unattended.  

This is because burning candles can release chemicals like soot and carbon monoxide into the air. These chemicals can enter your lungs and cause respiratory problems and can also be absorbed through your skin. Burning candles in a poorly ventilated room will cause these chemicals to become concentrated, increasing the risk of toxic exposure. This is not only harmful to you, but your furry friends too! 

What to do if Your Dog at a Candle 

If your dog has ingested a candle, it is important to take action immediately to minimize any potential harm. Here are the steps you should follow: 

Call your veterinarian: If your dog has swallowed a significant amount of wax or fragrance oil, it is essential to seek veterinary care right away. Your veterinarian will be able to determine the level of toxicity and the best course of treatment. 

Remove any remaining wax or fragrance oil: If there is any remaining wax or fragrance oil on your dog's coat, remove it as soon as possible to prevent further ingestion. 

Induce vomiting: If the ingestion occurred within the last two hours, your veterinarian might advise inducing vomiting to remove any remaining wax from your dog's digestive system. 

Monitor for symptoms: If your dog is showing symptoms of illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, it is important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible. Dogs can become seriously ill very quickly, and early intervention is key to providing the best possible outcome. Waiting too long can put your pet's health at risk and make it harder to treat the underlying issue. 

Prevent future incidents: Make sure to store candles out of reach of your dog and keep them in a well-ventilated area to reduce the risk of toxic exposure. Candle wax, when ingested, can cause digestive problems and can also contain toxins which can be harmful to your pet if licked or inhaled. Additionally, the heat from a burning candle can cause serious burns if touched. 

It is essential to take immediate action if your dog has ingested a candle. By following the steps outlined above, you can help to minimize any potential harm to your furry friend. If you have any concerns or questions, don't hesitate to consult with your veterinarian. 

Smells Candles are Safe for Dogs! 

Scented candles can be safe for dogs when used responsibly and made from safe ingredients. It is always a good idea to consult your veterinarian about the safety of candles before using them around your pet. Take these precautions to ensure your pet's safety and well-being while enjoying the fragrant benefits of candles. 

You can add fragrance to your home safely and effectively with Smells scented candles if you're a pet owner. Beeswax, soy wax, and coconut wax are among the natural ingredients in our candles, which are free of harmful chemicals and synthetic fragrances.  

Our candles are also safe for you and your furry friend because they are made with care and tested for safety. Each candle is carefully crafted using only the finest ingredients, including essential oils and natural waxes, to ensure a safe and pleasant experience for you and your pet. The natural waxes used to make our candles are also non-toxic and hypoallergenic, so you don't have to worry about fumes or harsh chemicals in your home. 

So why wait? Invest in a Smells scented candle today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your pet is safe while enjoying the fragrant benefits of candles. Get yours now!  

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