Important Safety Notice: Protecting Pets from Fentanyl & Opioid Exposure
Disclaimer: Dogs On The Run is not a veterinary provider and does not offer medical advice. If you believe your pet may have ingested anything harmful including drugs, medications, or unknown substances you should seek immediate veterinary care or contact an emergency animal hospital. When in doubt always get medical help right away.
The Growing Risk of Opioid Exposure for Pets
The opioid crisis, especially the increased presence of fentanyl, is creating risks for pets inside the home and out in public. Dogs are naturally curious and can accidentally ingest or inhale dangerous substances long before a human ever notices them.
Why It Is So Serious
Fentanyl is extremely potent. Even tiny traces on the ground, on packaging, or in discarded items can be harmful.
Dogs explore the world with their noses and mouths, making them more vulnerable to accidental exposure during walks.
Common Signs of Opioid or Fentanyl Poisoning
If a dog is exposed, symptoms may appear quickly. Watch for:
Excessive drooling
Vomiting or diarrhea
Unsteady walking or collapse
Lethargy or unresponsiveness
Difficulty breathing
Slow heart rate
Tremors or seizures
If you see any of these symptoms, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.
Why Walks Can Pose a Risk
Dogs can encounter discarded pills, powder residue, patches, wrappers, used needles, or unidentifiable objects outdoors. Sniffing or tasting something harmful can lead to poisoning, even if the amount is extremely small.
Higher Risk Areas
Public parks
Sidewalks in busy nightlife districts
Areas near homeless encampments
Alleys and unmonitored walkways
Places with scattered trash or debris
How to Keep Your Dog Safe on Walks
Keep your dog on a leash so you can supervise closely.
Avoid letting your dog sniff trash, wrappers, or debris.
Redirect their attention if they show interest in a suspicious item.
Use strong Leave It and Drop It commands.
Stick to clean and well maintained walking routes when possible.
Consider using paw protection in higher risk urban areas.
If You Think Your Dog May Have Ingested Something
Seek veterinary care immediately.
Tell the veterinarian what you suspect even if you are unsure.
If you found a substance bring it with you or take a photo to help with identification.
Do not wait for symptoms. Opioid exposures can progress rapidly.
About Naloxone (Narcan)
Naloxone can reverse opioid effects in dogs, but it must be administered by a veterinarian.
Multiple doses may be needed in fentanyl related exposures.
Naloxone is not a substitute for immediate professional care.
Prevention Starts at Home
Store all medications securely and out of reach of pets.
Never leave used patches, pill bottles, or medication wrappers where pets can access them.
Dispose of opioids through official medication take back programs only.
Stay Alert and Stay Prepared
Awareness is the best protection.
Know the signs of exposure.
Keep walks supervised and controlled.
Avoid areas where drug related debris may be present.
Act quickly if anything seems wrong.
Taking simple precautions can make a meaningful difference in protecting your pet in an environment where fentanyl and other opioids are increasingly present.
