Dogs walk on grass, roll in the grass, and even eat grass. If that grass had treatments for weed-control, including treatments of Roundup, dogs can suffer exposure to glyphosate. Glyphosate is the main ingredient found in Roundup and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) classifies it as a possible carcinogen. If a dog consumes Roundup, they may develop diarrhea, vomiting, cardiac arrest, or anorexia. Take your dog to the veterinarian as soon as possible if they develop any of these types of symptoms.
Roundup Causing Cancer in Dogs
In an Environmental Research Journal study that examined the relationship between dogs developing cancer and pesticide exposure, 263 dogs developed malignant lymphoma, 240 dogs developed benign tumors, and 230 dogs developed medical issues requiring surgery. The owners of the dogs answered questions about the environment of the dog, their medical history, as well as what types of pesticides or insecticides owners used in the home or in the neighborhood.
The research concluded that dogs that lived in homes with pesticide use were up to 70% more likely to develop malignant lymphoma. Additionally, dogs who developed significant malignant lymphomas were even more likely to live in a home where an insecticide was consistently used. This study suggests that Roundup may cause cancer in dogs.
Dogs are mammals, just like humans. Due to their size, it would take less of a carcinogen to actually affect a dog than it would a human. The Roundup label itself indicates that all users should attempt to avoid getting the product in their eyes or on their skin and even encourages the use of gloves while spraying Roundup. The World Health Organization (WHO) also warns about the potential health risk associated with glyphosate and cites research from Entropy that shows it may interfere with the way a mammal’s body breaks down enzymes and nutrients.
Consider Using Non-Toxic Chemicals for Your Lawn and Garden
If you have a pet that goes in your yard often, you may want to consider using another type of herbicide, other than Roundup. There are ways in which you can eliminate weeds and unwanted vegetation without using Roundup or any product with the chemical glyphosate.
Additionally, if you take your dog to a dog park, or to any neighborhood park, you should try to discover whether or not those parks use Roundup or other toxic chemicals. If you take your dog for a walk in the neighborhood, it is unlikely that you will ask every homeowner whether they use Roundup on their lawn. Attempt to avoid having your dog in your neighbor’s grass as much as possible.
Most importantly, if the grass looks wet from any recent treatment of an herbicide, have your dog avoid that lawn completely. When Roundup and glyphosate are still wet, they may have a greater chance of entering and absorbing into the body. Finally, try to ensure that your dog never eats grass that may have been treated with Roundup.
What to Do if Your Dog Suffered Exposure to Roundup
If you believe that your dog suffered exposure to Roundup for substantial periods of time, you should always watch carefully to see if they develop any symptoms of cancer or other medical issues.
Every medical issue for your pet will have different symptoms, and therefore, it remains critical for you to visit with your veterinarian regarding any medical or physical challenges your pet develops. Remember to always tell your veterinarian about your dog’s exposure to Roundup so that they can take this information into account as they make determinations regarding any possible treatments, diagnoses, or even necessary medical diagnostic testing.
IMPORTANT: This page is for informational purposes only.
We do not accept cases on behalf of pets.
