Is Roundup Bad for Dogs?

Roundup, a widely used herbicide containing glyphosate, is a household name for weed control. However, its impact on the environment and potential health risks have raised concerns among pet owners. In this article, we will explore the toxicity of Roundup to dogs, its long-term health effects, what to do if your dog is exposed to it, and alternative weed control methods that are safer for your four-legged friends.

What Is Roundup?

Roundup is a popular herbicide manufactured by Monsanto, which Bayer now owns. Its active ingredient, Glyphosate, is designed to kill many weeds and unwanted plants. Glyphosate works by inhibiting an enzyme essential for plant growth, eventually causing the plant to wither and die.

Glyphosate is available in various formulations, including liquid concentrates, ready-to-use sprays, and granular products. These products are often used for home gardening, lawn care, and in industrial agriculture settings to manage weeds efficiently.

This site contains affiliate links to certain products. We may receive a small commission for purchases made through these links

Is Roundup Toxic To Dogs?

Glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup, is generally considered to have a relatively low toxicity level for mammals, including dogs. Glyphosate is not immediately lethal to pets when used according to label instructions. However, it’s essential to understand that Roundup contains more than just Glyphosate. The product includes other chemicals, surfactants, and additives that can be more toxic and pose greater risks to dogs.

Symptoms of Glyphosate Poisoning in Dogs:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Drooling
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Increased heart rate
• Difficulty breathing
• Pale gums
• Tremors

Ingesting a small amount of Roundup or glyphosate-containing products might not cause severe immediate harm to your dog. However, repeated exposure or ingestion of larger quantities can lead to more severe symptoms. If your dog has ingested Roundup or glyphosate-based products and exhibits any of these symptoms, it is essential to seek immediate veterinary care.

Long-Term Health Effects of Roundup on Dogs

The interaction between Roundup and our canine companions is far from harmonious. Numerous studies have shown that glyphosate levels in dogs can be as much as fifty times higher than those in their human counterparts. This heightened susceptibility of dogs to toxins may be attributed to their smaller stature and the absence of protective paw coverings. Moreover, dogs can inadvertently ingest Glyphosate through contaminated food sources.

The perils of chemicals sprayed in one yard infiltrating neighbouring properties and homes should not be underestimated. These substances can instigate a spectrum of detrimental effects, ranging from cancer development to symptoms such as excessive salivation, gastrointestinal distress, loss of appetite, and pronounced lethargy.

Considering the influence of Glyphosate in Roundup on your dog’s health, it could be argued that the divergence between canine and plant protein synthesis diminishes the impact. However, this simplistic viewpoint doesn’t capture the full picture. Acknowledging that specific intestinal bacteria’s functionality is jeopardised is crucial.

The immune systems of canines consist of vast colonies of microscopic organisms, numbering in the billions, residing in their skin, digestive tract, and body as a whole. These thriving communities, scientifically known as microbiomes, play a pivotal role in maintaining the well-being of your beloved pet.

The harmful effects of Glyphosate can extend to the very heart of these microbiomes. As a result, your dog may face difficulties in absorbing specific vitamins or producing essential fatty acids. In addition to impeding the absorption of critical nutrients, this substance can also impact your dog’s immune system. It is worth noting that Glyphosate has the potential to accumulate in the kidneys after ingestion, further accentuating the concern.

What is the Likelihood of Your Dog Encountering Roundup or Glyphosate?

Researchers conducted a comprehensive study involving fifty individuals in California, spanning the periods from 1993 to 1996 and 2014 to 2016. What they found was both alarming and eye-opening: the quantity of Glyphosate increased and the number of individuals testing positive for this chemical increased.

A staggering 93% of these individuals, as per the analysis performed at the University of California, San Francisco, were found to have detectable levels of Glyphosate in their urine. The average concentration in the sampled population was 3.096 parts per billion (PPB), with children exhibiting the highest levels. Moreover, those residing in the western and Midwest regions showed the greatest glyphosate levels. Such concerning levels have led to legislative efforts in the United States to limit glyphosate exposure, particularly in children.

Lawn Chemicals and Roundup: A Link to Canine Cancer

Approximately half of all dogs will develop cancer during their lifetime, and this proportion is alarmingly on the rise. The exposure to Glyphosate, often present in Roundup and other herbicides, could play a significant role in this disturbing trend.

A six-year study conducted at Tufts University revealed a staggering 70% increase in the risk of lymphoma associated with using lawn chemicals. These chemicals, including Glyphosate, are increasingly suspected of disrupting the endocrine system, damaging DNA, and eradicating beneficial gut flora in dogs.

To add to the mounting evidence, a study in 2013 uncovered a potential link between the use of lawn chemicals and the risk of bladder cancer in dogs. What’s particularly noteworthy is that Glyphosate was detected in the urine of dogs residing in households where lawns were not treated with herbicides, suggesting a broader environmental contamination.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently classified Glyphosate as a potentially hazardous substance with carcinogenic properties, a designation supported by cancer researchers. In 2017, California’s Proposition 65 went even further, categorizing Glyphosate as a known human carcinogen. Ironically, the United States government maintains a considerably more lenient stance on Glyphosate than these classifications.

Despite these alarming developments, EPA officials have continued to assert that Glyphosate, in its current form, poses no significant health risk. However, as of 2022, court orders have mandated a reevaluation of this stance. A few years ago, Margaret Hamburg, who served as the US FDA Commissioner from 2009 to 2015, attempted to quell concerns regarding the cancer’s link to Glyphosate. She stated that Glyphosate induces cancer but only when consumed gradually in small quantities over an extended period.

FAQs

How long should canines stay out of a yard treated with Roundup?

After applying Roundup, it’s advisable to keep your dog out of the treated area until it’s scorched, which usually takes around 30 minutes. This prevents contact with the herbicide and avoids the risk of it being carried into the soil or other areas by your dog’s paw prints, which could result in bald patches on the lawn.

Is Roundup lethal to dogs?

Yes, Roundup can be harmful to dogs. Ingesting Roundup can lead to serious symptoms such as respiratory distress, arrhythmias, and convulsions. In some cases, this can be fatal. If you suspect your dog has consumed Roundup, seek immediate veterinary attention.

When do symptoms of Roundup poisoning in dogs appear?

The symptoms of Roundup poisoning can vary. Some dogs may exhibit immediate symptoms like excessive drooling or regurgitation. Skin rashes, sores, or irritation might develop within a few hours. More severe symptoms like convulsions, collapse, or breathing difficulties may not become evident for up to two days, depending on the amount of Roundup ingested.

How can you ensure your dog’s safety using Roundup in the garden?

To minimize potential risks to your dog, follow the instructions for handling, storing, and preparing Roundup. Please keep your dog away from the treated area until it’s scorched to prevent them from contacting the herbicide. Although the risk of cancer from indirect contact with Glyphosate (the active ingredient in Roundup) is considered minimal, it’s a good idea to explore safer alternatives to this weed killer while maintaining your garden in a way that’s safe for you and your canine companion.

Conclusion

Yes, Roundup can be harmful to dogs. This herbicide contains Glyphosate, which, if ingested, can lead to severe health issues in canines, including respiratory distress, arrhythmias, and even death. The symptoms may vary and may not be immediately apparent, with some manifesting up to two days. While the risk of cancer in dogs due to indirect contact with Glyphosate is considered low, it’s essential to exercise caution. To safeguard your furry companion, adhere to safety guidelines when using Roundup, prevent your dog from accessing treated areas until they are entirely dry, and consider exploring alternative, pet-friendly weed control methods. Prioritizing your dog’s safety is crucial when using potentially hazardous chemicals in your garden.