My Dog is Covered in Paint or Tar or Oil

Dealing with a Dog Covered in Paint or Tar or Oil

Dogs are inquisitive and, if not carefully monitored, can get into all kinds of trouble. In addition to curiosity, there are some malicious people in the world that can cause serious injury to our dogs.

Though not a common problems, getting paint, tar, grease, etc., in their fur can be frustrating.

DO NOT use turpentine or gasoline to remove paint, tar, etc., from a dog or cat. These substances are very irritating to the skin and can cause serious and severe reactions.

Methods to remove topical substances on dogs include:

• Wash with mild dish soap –some paints before they dry can be removed with soap and water.
• Dawn® dish soap works well to remove greasy substances.
• Vegetable oil or peanut butter has been effective in removing tar and grease. After the oil bath, a bath with mild dish soap is recommended.
• Goop® or Goo Gone® are a couple of over the counter products that may help to remove some of these substances.

If all else fails, take the dog to a groomer or veterinarian and have the hair shaved.