Why does my pet get sick after a basement drain backup?

 

Why Your Pet Gets Sick After a Basement Drain Backup

  When a basement drain backup happens, water that should normally go away instead fills your basement. This water can mix with sewage, dirt, and chemicals, making it very dirty and harmful. Your pet may get sick because it comes into contact with, or even drinks, this contaminated water.

The water contains many microbes like bacteria, viruses, and parasites. These are tiny living germs that can cause infections. When your pet gets in touch with or accidentally consumes this polluted water, these germs can enter its body and upset its normal functions. Many pets have more sensitive systems than humans and can become ill with symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy.

 

How the Contaminated Water Affects Your Pet

 

• Direct contact with harmful germs: When your pet walks on the wet, dirty floor or licks surfaces cleaned with the backup water, it picks up bacteria and viruses that are not safe to have on its skin or in its mouth.
• Ingestion of contaminated water: Pets, especially dogs, may drink the water, not knowing it contains dangerous substances. This can lead to stomach upset or more serious infections.
• Exposure to toxic chemicals: Basement water may also include chemicals from household cleaners or other pollutants. These chemicals can poison your pet if they are ingested or absorb through the skin.
• Mold and mildew growth: Damp conditions help mold and mildew to grow. Some types of mold produce spores or toxins that can irritate your pet’s respiratory system, leading to symptoms like coughing or sneezing.

 

Understanding the Pathway from Basements to Pet Illness

  When the drain backs up, the water may be coming from pipes that carry both water and sewage. Sewage water is not safe because it carries not just dirt, but also human waste, which contains fecal bacteria. These bacteria are especially problematic for pets who might not have a strong enough immune system to fight them off. Even if your pet is generally healthy, a large dose of these germs can upset its balance.

If your pet licks its paws or fur after touching contaminated surfaces, or if it plays in the puddles without you realizing the danger, it can easily get sick. Moreover, stress and anxiety from the noisy or chaotic environment during a basement backup can weaken your pet’s natural defenses, making it more vulnerable to picking up infections.

 

Additional Considerations

 

• Immediate clean-up is essential: After a backup, it’s important to clean and disinfect your home thoroughly. This includes not only the basement but any area where your pet might have come into contact with the contaminated water.
• Watch for signs of illness: If your pet shows signs of sickness such as loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, contact a veterinarian as soon as possible.
• Prevention is key: Secure areas where your pet can roam freely when you expect repairs. Prevent access to the basement until it has been cleaned and made safe again.
• Professional help: Consider calling a professional drainage or restoration service if the backup is severe. In regions like St. Louis and Nashville, local experts have the tools and experience to clean up safely and prevent future issues.

By understanding that a basement drain backup brings in dangerous germs, chemicals, and mold spores, you can see why your pet might get sick. Clean-up, prevention, and quick action can help protect your pet and keep your home safe.