Ask a Vet: The Dangers of PPE for Animals

Gibbs required surgery after swallowing disposable masks

For all of us, Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) has become a way of life. Many news outlets and other resources continue to explain the proper way to wear a mask – but very few have addressed how to properly store or dispose of them. For one animal, the improper disposal of PPE almost cost him his life. Gibbs, a nine-year-old Miniature Schnauzer, came to ARL in August after having emergency surgery to remove two paper masks that he had ingested. Fortunately, Gibbs made a full recovery and found his forever home soon after! Gibbs’ story presented an opportunity for ARL to partner with the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR), Massachusetts Veterinary Medicine Association (MVMA), and other local agencies to share this important pet safety message with the public. Why is PPE potentially dangerous for domestic animals and wildlife? OFFF spoke with Dr. Nicole Breda, Medical Director for Boston Veterinary Care (BVC) to find out:

OFFF: When there’s a glove, mask, or other piece of PPE on the ground, why would that be enticing for an animal?

Dr. Breda: PPE, both gloves and masks, are full of scents that may be appealing to pets or wildlife. Think specifically of the mask you breathe into; it’s going to smell like food, which is enticing for any animal.

OFFF: What are the dangers of an animal ingesting a piece of PPE?

Dr. Breda: The materials that make up PPE are not digestible and can cause a variety of issues that may be life-threatening. An intestinal blockage is a real possibility, and would certainly be a medical emergency. Additionally, the wires found in some face masks can puncture the lining of the intestinal tract, and may also cause sepsis (an infection of the bloodstream), which can be fatal.

OFFF: What are the signs that an animal may have ingested not just PPE, but any foreign object?

Dr. Breda: There are a number of signs that an animal may have ingested something they shouldn’t have, including: vomiting, loss of appetite, lack of energy, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. If an animal exhibits any of these signs, you should seek veterinary care immediately.

OFFF: How should a piece of PPE be properly discarded?

Dr. Breda: It’s simple. When you’re finished with a piece of PPE, place it in a covered waste container. If you’re outdoors and a covered waste container is not available, place the PPE in a zipped pocket, purse, car glove compartment, or anywhere it can be securely stored until it can be disposed of properly. If placed in a non-covered waste container, any domestic animal or wildlife can very easily access it.

Gibbs This nine-year-old dog required emergency surgery to remove the PPE equipment he ingested.