Phenol poisoning in three dogs

Three adult dogs were evaluated following oral administration of phenol by the owner. All three dogs experienced severe oral and gastric ulceration. H ematological abnormalities included neutropenia with the presence of toxic neutrophils, thrombocytopenia, and increased muscle enzymes. Endoscopic exa mination was performed, and biopsies yielded a diagnosis of gastric mucosal necrosis in two of the dogs. Following supportive care, the dogs recovered completely. Phenol is a caustic, highly poisonous derivative of coal tar. The dogs of this report were poisoned inadvertently by their owner who rece ived misinformation concerning the use of this chemical via the Internet.