Poison Sumac and Pets

Contact With Poison Sumac

• When humans and animals come in direct contact with poison sumac, the chances of releasing the toxins are good. If you come in direct contact with urushiol oil by touching the plant, indirectly by touching your pet's hair, or from contaminated objects like shoes, clothing or tools, you may develop Rhus-dermatitis, an itchy rash. Seeking treatment in order to relieve symptoms may be necessary. You may also be affected internally if you inhale sooty sap-covered ash from burned poison sumac. If you think you or your pet may have come in contact with poison sumac, wash your hands or areas you believe may be affected several times. Give your pet a thorough bath with plenty of soap. This may help, but is not a guarantee you will not develop a rash.

Identifying Poison Sumac

• Poison sumac grows in swampy areas, so most humans do not come in contact with it. The plant grows as a small tree or shrub and has seven to 13 staggered leaflets with one at the tip. The midrib is always red, according to "The Poison Oak & Poison Ivy Survival Guide." Poison sumac fruit grows between the leaf and the branch, in contrast to nonpoisonous sumac, which has fruit at the ends of its branches. Its fruit, called drupes, have the appearance of a pea when immature. When mature, the fruit loses its outer skin and resembles a tiny orange. This toxic shrub grows in U. S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 through 8.

A Potent, Long-lasting Toxin

• According to the Poison Oak, Ivy & Sumac Information Center, all three poisonous plants contain the same toxic sap, urushiol. One-fourth ounce of the poison is enough to cause a rash in every human on earth. Urushiol oil can remain active on any surface from one to five years, but some sensitive people may be able to contract dermatitis from affected items after longer periods of time.
  If you have come in contact with this toxin for the first time, it may take up to 10 days before symptoms appear. Some people may not get any symptoms after exposure.

Symptoms And Treatment Of Rhus-dermatitis

• In most cases of rhus dermatitis, the rash appears at the site of contact. You may experience itching that will not subside, the appearance of red streaks on your skin and a mild burning sensation. Your skin may eventually blister, and you may observe a milky pus oozing from the blisters. Depending on your sensitivity and exposure to urushiol, your symptoms may last from seven days to over a month. You may be able to manage your dermatitis at home by applying ice to the affected area to help relieve pain and itching. You may also try an over-the-counter topical or oral antihistamine. If your case is more serious, consult your doctor for advice on a stronger medication.