to me, this subject is camping related, therefore list appropriate.  I carry Tecnu in my van, in the cupboard under the table storage site, left of the refrigerator.

the whole point of bathing, whether oneself or a dog, after poison ivy exposure is to strip the oils from the exposed parts.  If that is not done, then the person or the pet can transfer the poison ivy oils to an unsuspecting person, and bring about a reaction, perhaps serious (in my wife's case, life threatening) from the exposure.

the dog will restore the oils to its skin and fur in a day or so, and be none the worse for the experience.  the person exposed to the poison ivy oils by petting the dog may have to have medical intervention, perhaps stabilization by hormone therapy in a hospital.

mcneely

---- Mike S <mikes@FLATSURFACE.COM> wrote:
> On 4/4/2012 6:24 PM, Stephen Grisanti wrote:
> > Dawn is also supposed to be the best thing for washing off the oils
> > from poison ivy/oak before they can do too much damage, and a Dawn
> > wash followed by a Selsun Blue wash is the best for bathing dogs.
> > Fortunately, I've been spared coolant/ATF in my hair, so far.
>
> This is really a Friday subject, and I'll apologize in advance for
> breaking the rules.
>
> Dawn, or any strong detergent, is not good for (many/most) dog breeds.
> It strips the oils from their coat. While that may make humans think
> they're clean and good smelling, it's not good for the dog. The oils in
> their coat are important, especially for any dog which enjoys the water,
> or spends time outside.
>
> If it ran into a skunk, sure. Otherwise, a real dog shampoo or mild soap
> (Dr. Bronner's or baby shampoo) works well.

--
David McNeely