Arsenic

What is arsenic?

Arsenic is a semi-metal that exists in various compounds. There are organic arsenic compounds, which contain carbon, and inorganic arsenic compounds, which do not contain carbon. Organic arsenic compounds are mainly found in plants and animals, while inorganic arsenic compounds are mainly found in rocks, soils and water.

Arsenic has various applications in industry, agriculture and medicine. For example, it is used to preserve wood, alloy metals, produce pesticides and herbicides or as a homeopathic remedy for various ailments.

How does arsenic affect dogs?

The effect of arsenic on dogs depends on the type, amount and duration of exposure. Organic arsenic compounds are generally less toxic than inorganic arsenic compounds. Ingestion of small amounts of organic arsenic can even be beneficial to dogs as it promotes blood formation and strengthens the immune system.

However, ingesting large amounts or prolonged exposure to inorganic arsenic can cause serious health problems. The symptoms of arsenic poisoning can include

• Vomiting
• diarrhea
• abdominal pain
• loss of appetite
• weight loss
• weakness
• tremors
• cramps
• shortness of breath
• Cardiac arrhythmia
• shock

Chronic exposure to inorganic arsenic can also lead to skin changes, hair loss, liver and kidney damage or cancer.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of arsenic as an ingredient for dogs?

As you can see, arsenic as an ingredient for dogs has both advantages and disadvantages. The advantages are:

• Organic arsenic can support blood formation and the immune system.
• Organic arsenic can be used as a homeopathic remedy for various ailments.

The disadvantages are:

• Inorganic arsenic is very toxic and can lead to acute or chronic poisoning.
• Inorganic arsenic can occur in the environment or in the food of dogs and can be ingested unnoticed.
• Inorganic arsenic can be difficult to detect and requires rapid treatment.