Some dogs, their humans and groomers accept nail polishing as part of the grooming treatment. But how safe are the nail polishes that are used on our furry friends?
Dr. Karen Becker on her blog “Healthy Pets” tells us that the California Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) recently sent 25 nail products from salons across the state to be tested for 3 chemicals – Debutyl Phthalate (DBP), Toluene and Formaldehyde. These chemicals are linked to asthma, developmental problems and other chronic health conditions through inhalation.
DBP is banned in Europe for use in nail products. Also in Europe the use of toluene and formaldehyde are strictly limited and supervised. The United States allows the use of these 3 chemicals as long as containers are properly labeled.
Results of the tests requested by the DTSC are as follows:
- Some nail products were toxin-free
- Some of the nail products contained 1 or more of the 3 chemicals
- 5 of 7 nail products tested had significant amounts of 1 or more of the chemicals
- 10 of 12 nail products tested contained toluene and 4 of the 10 had dangerously high levels.
One manufacturer is challenging the report. Another manufacturer claims he doesn’t know how the chemical got into his product and suggests it may have been contaminated during testing.
Suggestions for nail polish use: When polishing your own nails, have the room well ventilated and keep pets out of the area until nails are dry.
If you still want to polish your dog’s nails, research nail polishes and nail polish removers thoroughly to make sure they are really toxin-free.
