Is Liquid Fence Safe for Dogs?
Liquid Fence is a dog and cat repellent product that promises to help prevent other undesirable animals from invading your compound using the smell aversion technique. It is advertised as a non-lethal method to keep dogs, cats, deer, rabbits, raccoons, skunks, and other pests out. However, is Liquid Fence safe for pets as it claims to be on their website? Here is what you ought to know.
What is Liquid Fence?
Liquid Fence is a secret formula that contains natural oils, herbs, and chemicals that release disagreeable odors to scare away unwanted animals.
The main ingredients in Liquid Fence repellents include:
- Garlic oil and garlic extract
- Hot peppers, capsaicin, and capsaicin oleoresins
- Raw whole egg powder
- Peppermint oil, rosemary oil, and other all-natural oils
When used around the edges of a yard or garden, the stench is enough to keep almost all dogs, cats, and wildlife out of the area. The intense odors confuse the animal’s olfactory system; in the process, the animal will stay clear of the area.
Is Liquid Fence Safe for Dogs?
The manufacturers of Liquid Fence assert their products are safe for dogs and pets if used as instructed by the label. However, different concerns have been raised by many veterinarians and pet owners about the safety of Fence on dogs.
Here are some of the potential risks:
Skin and Eye Irritation
The pungent odors of Liquid Fence also contain some chemicals that, if in contact with dog’s skin, may lead to redness, inflammation, or even burning sensations. It could also cause eye irritation if a curious dog approaches the product and sniffs it.
Ingestion Risks
When a dog licks, eats, or drinks Liquid Fence, it may result in irritation, excessive salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, or other stomach ailments. Human foods including garlic, mint, capsaicin, and putrescent egg solids are poisonous to dogs if they are ingested.
Respiratory Issues
In addition, strong odors from Liquid Fence may trigger respiratory issues in dogs due to irritation mostly in brachycephalic breeds such as bulldogs and pugs with short snouts and sensitive airway passages.
Stress and Anxiety
Though Liquid Fence possesses a natural smell, the pungent origin of the smell or odor might make some dogs stressed or anxious. Stimuli, which populate the olfactory sense, to which dogs are highly dependent, may cause distress to them.
Safe Ways to Employ Liquid Fence When Around Dogs
If you want to use Liquid Fence around your dogs, there are some precautions you can take:
- Use according to the instructions given on the labels. Avoid applying it in quantities larger than recommended.
- Paint Liquid Fence on surfaces that your dog cannot reach easily, like on top of your constructed fences.
- Always confine your dogs to prevent them from accessing areas to be treated with application and drying.
- Supervise your dogs when initially introducing them to the area treated with the repellent.
- Wash dogs as soon as they are exposed to Liquid Fence because of the adverse effects it can have on skin.
Before using a Liquid Fence around your dogs, consult your veterinarian for any particular issues you may have with using this substance. They may tell you not to use it, which brands are preferable, or offer recommendations of non-toxic repellents to keep strays away from your compound.
Liquid Fence is Not Pet-safe, and the Alternatives are Listed Below
If you decide Liquid Fence sounds too risky to use around dogs, there are some more pet-friendly options to consider instead, such as:
- Proximity or physical barriers in the form of fences
- Motion-activated sprinklers
- Ultrasonic repellers
- Natural smell repellents using citrus or vinegar
Consult with your vet to find out which repellents are most suitable to discourage the animals from raiding your garden without endangering your pets. In some cases, it should be possible to develop a decent animal- and pet-friendly solution.
The Bottom Line
Liquid Fence uses natural yet extremely pungent odors to repel dogs and other animals, with the help of their sense of smell. In your dogs, such extremely potent smells could pose various risks, including skin and eye irritation, ingestion poisoning, respiratory problems, anxiety, and stress.
Even though Liquid Fence products are advertised as pet-friendly when used according to instructions, most veterinarians advise against using them around your own dogs. However, it may be more advisable to opt for physical barriers or the use of pet-safe repellents rather than taking such worrisome or dangerous risks.
If you wish to try Liquid Fence, make sure you read the label safety instructions, limit your dog’s exposure to the chemicals during or right after application, and observe them for any adverse reactions. If you have any doubts regarding the well-being and comfort of your dogs, discontinue the use of the product immediately.