Accidentally ingesting dog hair is generally not harmful, but it can cause some issues in rare cases. Here are a few things to consider:

Dog hair is made up of several compounds, including:

1. Keratin: A protein that makes up the majority of dog hair, providing strength and structure.

2. Melanin: A pigment responsible for hair colour, with eumelanin producing black and dark brown colours, and pheomelanin producing red and yellow colours.

3. Lipids: Fatty substances that help to repel water and give hair its shine.

4. Moisture: Dog hair contains a small amount of moisture, which helps to keep it supple and flexible.

5. Dead skin cells: Dog hair can contain small amounts of dead skin cells, which can contribute to dander.

Additionally, dog hair may also contain other substances like:

– Oils from the skin and coat

– Dirt and debris

– Pollen and other environmental allergens

– Flea and tick residue (if present)

Initial Reaction (0-24 hours)

1. Ingestion: Dog hair enters the mouth and is swallowed, passing through the oesophagus into the stomach.

2. Gastric juices: Stomach acid and digestive enzymes attempt to break down the hair, but keratin (the protein in dog hair) is resistant to digestion.

3. Hair accumulates: Swallowed dog hair can accumulate in the stomach, potentially causing discomfort, nausea, or vomiting.

Short-term Effects (24-72 hours)

1. Intestinal perforation: In rare cases, if the swallowed dog hair accumulates in the intestines and causes a blockage, it can lead to a hole in the intestinal wall (perforation). This is a serious condition that requires medical attention.

2. HAIR ACCUMULATION: If a large amount of dog hair is swallowed, it can potentially accumulate in the intestines and cause a blockage. However, this is extremely rare and usually only happens if someone swallows a very large amount of hair.

3.GASTROINTESTINAL UPSET: Swallowing dog hair may cause stomach pain, bloating, gas, diarrhoea, or constipation.

4. ALLERGIC REACTIONS: Some people may be allergic to dog dander (tiny scales on dog skin) that can be attached to the hair. Swallowing dog hair can trigger an allergic reaction in these individuals.

To put things into perspective, it’s worth noting that humans often ingest small amounts of dog hair unintentionally (e.g., through food, water, or air), and it usually passes through the digestive system without issues.

Long-term Effects (weeks to months)

1. Hairballs: Accumulated dog hair can form a hairball (trichobezoar) in the stomach, potentially causing:

    – Abdominal pain

    – Vomiting

    – Weight loss

    – Malnutrition

2. Intestinal damage: Repeatedly swallowing large amounts of dog hair can cause chronic intestinal inflammation, leading to:

    – Malabsorption of nutrients

    – Weight loss

    – Anaemia

3. Allergic reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions, such as:

    – Hives

    – Itching

    – Swelling

    – Respiratory issues

Rare but Potential Complications

1. Surgical intervention: In severe cases, intestinal blockages or perforations may require surgical removal of the accumulated hair or damaged intestinal section.

2. Nutritional deficiencies: Chronic intestinal damage or malabsorption can lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients.

However, it’s important to note that:

1. Dog hair is not toxic or poisonous.

2. The body can usually pass dog hair without issues.

3. Accidental ingestion of small amounts of hair is unlikely to cause significant problems.