Dichloromethane

What are the advantages of dichloromethane?

Dichloromethane has several advantages as a solvent, as it can dissolve many organic substances, evaporates quickly and is non-flammable. It is also used to decaffeinate coffee and tea as it can extract the caffeine without affecting the taste. Dichloromethane also has a low toxicity to humans at short exposure and low concentration.

What are the disadvantages of dichloromethane?

However, dichloromethane also has many disadvantages, especially for dogs. Dichloromethane can cause serious damage to health with prolonged or severe exposure, such as:

• Skin irritation, burns and allergies
• Eye irritation and damage
• Respiratory tract irritation, coughing, shortness of breath and pulmonary edema
• Headaches, dizziness, fatigue and loss of consciousness
• Liver and kidney damage
• Risk of cancer

Dichloromethane can also damage the ozone layer and contribute to the greenhouse effect.

How can dogs come into contact with dichloromethane?

Dogs can come into contact with dichloromethane if they swallow or inhale products containing this substance or absorb it through their skin. This can happen, for example, if they:

• Licking or drinking paint remover or other solvents
• Play or chew with contaminated objects or surfaces
• Inhale the vapor of dichloromethane that escapes from open containers or when using products
• Getting dichloromethane on your fur or skin

How can you recognize dichloromethane poisoning?

Dichloromethane poisoning can cause different symptoms depending on the type, duration and amount of exposure. The most common signs include

• Salivation, vomiting and diarrhea
• Apathy, weakness and tremors
• Coughing, wheezing and nosebleeds
• Red or watery eyes
• Seizures or coma

How can dichloromethane poisoning be treated?

Poisoning with dichloromethane requires immediate veterinary care. The vet will try to prevent further ingestion of dichloromethane, for example by

• Pumping out the stomach or administering activated charcoal if the dog has swallowed anything
• Washing the skin or coat with soap and water if the dog has touched anything
• Oxygenate or ventilate the dog if the dog has inhaled something

The vet will also monitor the dog's vital signs and administer medication to relieve symptoms if necessary.

How to avoid dichloromethane poisoning?

Dichloromethane poisoning can be avoided by taking some precautions, such as:

• Keeping products containing dichloromethane safe and out of the reach of dogs
• Use products containing dichloromethane only in well-ventilated areas and away from naked flames or hot surfaces
• Properly dispose of or recycle products containing dichloromethane after use
• Keep dogs away from areas where dichloromethane is used or stored
• Have dogs examined regularly and watch for signs of poisoning