Question:
I have a 9-year-old female basset hound. Other than having skin allergies, she is in very good health. We feed her an all-natural dog food with no preservatives. And, yes, she does get "people food," too.Why does she like to eat soap? She will go into the garbage can to get out soap boxes and slivers of soap. She even got a new box that was on the floor and ate half the bar. Although she will lick at any brand, she seems to be quite fond of Dove soap. Please advise.
E.J., Matawan, NJ Jul 02, 2006
Answer:
Dogs and cats often develop an addiction to soap. This is because most soap is made from tallow, which is animal fat. Aside from synthetic aromatics in soap (which may not be safe to eat and, in some instances, not good to put on one's skin), the tallow in soap can be harmful.This is because dioxins, PCBs and pesticides (which can be extremely toxic in small amounts) accumulate in animals' fat. So keep your dog away from your soap. You may want to try a safer soap, like one based on coconut or glycerine.PET FOOD RECALLPeople who have recently purchased Ol' Roy canned dog food, sold only at Wal-Mart and Sam's Club, are advised there is a recall on this product because the inner lining of the can has become separated from the metal and may contaminate the food. All returns will be reimbursed.Chemicals in pet-food can linings have been linked with thyroid disease, so caution is called for, and this recall is well-advised.
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