How to Decontaminate Pets After a Radiation Emergency

At a glance

  • If you are instructed to stay inside during a radiation emergency, pets should be inside too.
  • Bring indoors any supplies from outside that your pets might need for at least 24 hours.
Man washing his dog in a wash tub

Pet decontamination

If your pet was outside, bring your pet inside:

  • Wash your pet carefully with shampoo or soap and water and rinse completely.
  • Wear waterproof gloves and a dust mask (or other material to cover your mouth) if you can.
  • Keep cuts and abrasions (both yours and your pets) covered when washing your pet to keep radioactive material out of the wound.
  • Wash your hands and face after washing your pet.

Pet food

Pet food in sealed containers (cans, bottles, boxes) will be safe for animals to eat. Wipe off pet food containers with a damp cloth or clean towel before opening them. Wash or wipe off pet bowls, dishes, and mats too. Put the used cloth or towel in a plastic bag or other sealable container and place the bag in an out-of-the-way place, away from other people and pets.

Pet sanitation

For pet sanitation, put newspapers or other absorbent material in your pet's area so your pet can relieve itself indoors.

  • Do not touch soiled material with your bare hands.
  • Place soiled material into a plastic bag or other sealable container.
  • Place the bag in an out-of-the-way place, away from other people and pets.
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Content Source:
National Center for Environmental Health