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Sue asked: How do I clean engine oil off a dot’s paws? It happened last night. I have tried dog shampoo and washing up liquid. I submerged the dog’s paws. It’s still coming off all over the carpets.
When 
dogs get into engine oil, it not only creates a walking mess, it can be a real hazard to their health. It’s important to clean the oil away completely to prevent the dog from licking it off. Here are some pet-safe methods for removing the oil.
You Will Need:
- Corn starch
- Grease fighting dish soap (ex: Dawn)
- Warm water
- Soft cloths
- Old, soft bristled toothbrush
- Patience
Steps to Clean the Paws:
- Start by dipping your pet’s paws into some cornstarch. Allow it to set for a few minutes if the dog will tolerate it. The cornstarch will absorb the liquid in the oil and allow it to dry up.
- Fill a bowl or shallow dish with warm water.
- Rinse away the cornstarch on the paw with water.
- Apply a drop or two of grease-fighting dish detergent directly to the oil spots on the paw.
- Massage the soap onto the paw gently with your fingers. A soft cloth can also be used to rub the paws gently.
- Rinse with warm water.
- Repeat if necessary. A soft toothbrush can be used to gently scrub away the oils.
- Depending on the amount of oil, it may take several repeated cleanings to completely remove it. Take breaks as needed to keep your pet relaxed and compliant.
- Once clean, rinse the paws completely and dry with a soft cloth.
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Additional Tips and Advice
- Do NOT use any harsh chemicals or cleaners on your pet’s paws. They could become sore or irritated.
- Keep in mind that your pet may ingest any of the cleaners if they are left on the paw. Rinse the feet completely and only use items that are not toxic.
- If the oil is old and will not come loose, try rubbing vegetable oil on it. The vegetable oil will make the old oil fresh again and allow for easier removal.
- To remove stains that have transferred to the carpet, see our guide How to Clean Engine Oil from Carpet
Thank you, thank you, thank you! My husband let the dog out before bed and after noticing spots on the comforter, we realized our pup had stepped in oil. I’ve never had this happen before, and at 12:30am I became very overwhelmed at the prospect of figuring out how to deal with this. I followed these instructions, and less than 20 minutes later, I was able to breathe a sigh of relief. My dog is all cleaned up and I can go to bed with peace of mind knowing he isn’t in danger of inadvertently ingesting any oil. I seriously can’t thank you enough!