When should I call the vet after my dog rolled in fox poo? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If your dog has rolled in fox poo, you usually only need to call the vet if they seem unwell, have got poo in their eyes, mouth or nose, have a skin reaction, or start showing vomiting, diarrhoea, or unusual behaviour afterwards. In most cases, the main issue is getting them properly cleaned and watching for any signs of irritation.
There can be several reasons to keep an eye on them, from simple coat contamination to possible tummy upset if they lick or eat some of it.
Things To Check
1. Check where the fox poo is on the coat and whether it has reached the eyes, mouth, nose, ears or any broken skin.
2. Look for redness, swelling, soreness, discharge, scabs or an unusual smell on the skin after cleaning.
3. Watch whether your dog is rubbing, scratching, licking or shaking their head more than usual.
4. Notice if they seem bright and normal, or whether they are off colour, quieter than usual or less interested in food or water.
5. Check for vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling or a sudden change in appetite after the incident.
6. Think about whether your dog has a skin condition, very sensitive skin, or a tendency to eat foul-smelling things.
7. Make sure your dog is not showing signs of a more general illness, such as feverish behaviour, shaking, pain or marked lethargy.
Common Causes
The most common issue is simply a dirty coat and a very strong smell that needs washing out.
Some dogs get skin irritation from the mess itself or from repeated rubbing during attempts to clean it.
If your dog has licked or eaten some of the fox poo, mild tummy upset can sometimes follow.
Less commonly, the poo may hide a skin problem, an existing sore, or an ear or eye irritation if it got into those areas.
What To Do
Remove as much of the mess as you can as soon as possible, then wash the affected area with lukewarm water and a dog-safe shampoo if needed.
Rinse thoroughly so no residue is left in the coat, and dry your dog well afterwards.
If the poo has got into the eyes, mouth, nose or ears, or onto broken skin, clean the area gently and monitor closely.
Keep an eye on your dog for the next day or so for vomiting, diarrhoea, rubbing, redness or soreness.
If your dog tends to roll in strong-smelling things, it can help to keep a simple wash routine in mind for future walks and muddy adventures.
When To Contact A Vet
Call your vet if your dog has fox poo in the eyes, mouth, nose or ears and you’re not sure it’s been cleaned out properly, or if the skin looks red, swollen or sore after washing. You should also contact your vet if your dog develops vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, marked lethargy, pain, or any behaviour that seems out of character.
Products That May Help
After a fox poo incident, a gentle wash routine can help with coat hygiene and odour control as part of normal grooming. This collection may be useful if you want practical items for cleaning and regular pet care at home.
Related Questions
Can I use human shampoo on my dog after fox poo?
How do I get fox poo smell out of my dog’s coat?
What should I do if my dog ate fox poo?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.