Generally, if your child eats dog poop, there's no immediate cause for alarm, but you should monitor them for potential symptoms and consult with your pediatrician if concerns arise.
Understanding the Risks
While unpleasant, eating dog poop (also known as coprophagy) is relatively common in young children. The biggest concerns stem from:
- Parasites: Dog poop can contain parasites like roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and Giardia, which can be transmitted to humans.
- Bacteria: Harmful bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli can also be present.
- Viruses: Although less common, some viruses can be transmitted through feces.
- Toxins: If the dog has ingested toxins, those could be present in the feces.
What to Do Immediately
- Don't panic: It's understandably upsetting, but staying calm will help you assess the situation.
- Remove any remaining poop: Prevent your child from eating any more.
- Check the dog's health: Is your dog up-to-date on vaccinations and deworming medication? This will help gauge the potential risk.
- Wash your child's hands and face thoroughly: Use soap and warm water.
- Monitor for symptoms: Watch for signs of illness in the coming days.
When to Contact a Doctor
According to the provided reference, it's important to contact your child's pediatrician if they experience any of the following:
- Vomiting for more than 24 hours
- Severe abdominal pain
- Bloody stools
- Diarrhea for more than 7 days
- Fever
A call to the pediatrician can help you determine the best course of action and whether a visit is necessary.
Prevention
- Clean up dog poop immediately: This is the most effective way to prevent your child from accessing it.
- Teach your child about hygiene: Explain why it's important not to touch or eat dog poop and to always wash their hands after playing outside.
- Supervise young children: Keep a close eye on toddlers and young children, especially when they are playing in areas where dogs may have defecated.
- Consider why the child did it: Sometimes, children eat unusual things due to curiosity or nutritional deficiencies. If you suspect a deficiency, discuss it with your doctor.
