Thermacell has become a popular mosquito repellent option for hunters, campers and backyard barbequers. But is Thermacell safe for dogs?
Well, I’ve got good news.
Thermacell is safe for dogs to be around when used and stored correctly.
What is Thermacell insect repellent?
The Thermacell portable mosquito repeller is one of the most effective ways to keep bugs away from a broad outdoor area.
The Thermacell device is portable and uses butane cartridges to vaporize a repellent that keeps mosquitos, flies, and gnats away. This repellent creates a 15-20 foot protection zone that bugs can’t stand.
What is Thermacell’s active ingredient?
All of their products contain the active ingredient allethrin, a natural mosquito repellent that comes from chrysanthemums and is a safer alternative to DEET.
This insecticide has been used for many years and is considered safe by the Environmental Protection Agency when used correctly.
Is Thermacell safe for dogs?
Thermacell, and it’s active ingredient allethrin, is completely safe for dogs to be around.
But coming in direct contact with a Thermacell cartridge or spray may have some negative side effects.
The allethrin mist from a Thermacell device disperses quickly, but if your dog is smelling the device when it goes off, your dog may be sprayed directly.
The Thermacell cartridges contain concentrated amounts of allethrin. This may result in itchy skin and rashes if touched, or upset stomachs and vomiting if ingested.
How to use Thermacell safely near dogs
Thermacell recommends turning on your device 15 minutes before you go into that area. This accomplishes two things:
It gives the active ingredients time to repel mosquitoes and other insects.
It gives the harmful chemicals time to evaporate into the air.
Keeping your Thermacell device out of your dog’s reach is important as well.
As any experienced dog owner knows, dogs will often get themselves into trouble by being too curious. The best course of action is to be proactive and make sure they can’t reach the dangerous devices.
How to store the Thermacell device and cartridges when not in use
All Thermacell products should be kept far away from your dog when you are not using them. Keep them on a high shelf or locked cabinet, so your dog has no risk of getting them.
How to safely dispose of Thermacell pads and cartridges
Just as Thermacell pads and cartridges are dangerous to your dog if ingested, they can be dangerous to other animals as well.
When camping, keep your Thermacell accessories away from ponds and streams. The allethrin within them can absorb into the water and greatly harm the natural wildlife that lives there.
And do not toss them into your fire. The fumes can contain harmful chemicals that affect you, your dog, and anything else within smelling distance.
Also, don’t use the garbage cans near your campsite. Bears and raccoons often get into that trash, and the Thermacell accessories could make them very sick.
The best way to dispose of your empty Thermacell pads and cartridges is to put them in a sealed bag, take them home with you, and put them in the trash or recycling at home.
If the cartridge or pad is partially filled or unused, call your local waste agency to receive disposal instructions.
What if my dog ate a Thermacell cartridge?
Even if you are as safe as can be, accidents still happen.
Often times, when a dog gets ahold of a Thermacell cartridge, they will drop it rather quickly. This may result in some stomach indigestion or vomiting. This will often go away on its own.
If you want to play it safe, or if your dog completely swallowed a cartridge, it would be a good idea to take your dog to the vet as soon as you can.
Conclusion
If you’re in an area where bug sprays and mosquito repellents are needed, Thermacell is a great option. If used correctly, it can be safe and effective around people and their dogs. Just be sure to keep the device and cartridges out of your pup’s reach.
Check out our article on the best pet insurance and fish oil for more dog health info.
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