Swiffer Wet Cloths and Animals

If you are like me, you heard allot about the rumor regarding Swiffer Wet Cloths being toxic to pets. Several e-mails where whirling around that many animals had died from ingesting this product simply from licking the floor after it had been cleaned with this product.

I personally have a lot of these products around the house, and also have a dog in the house. So I immediately sent a letter off to the main source, The Proctor & Gamble Company in Cincinnati, Ohio.

I received a letter, which included the following information:

"We're glad you came to us for the facts about the rumor circulating. Swiffer Wet Cloths and WetJet liquid solution do not contain antifreeze or any ingredient similar to it. In fact Swiffer products have been safely used in over 15 million U.S. homes--many with pets--for nearly five years."

It also goes to mention: Independent veterinarians and scientists evaluated the Swiffer Wet Cloths and WetJet cleaners and found them safe. The ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty of Animals) has even posted information about this
rumor on their site. Here's a link to their home page: http;//www.aspca.org.

This letter was sent to me by Leah Schroeder of Consumer Relations of The Proctor & Gamble Company. In recent years, there was a similar rumor going around about the use of Febreze, and now they even have a Pet Odor
Eliminator line.

Now believe Proctor & Gamble or not, it's what I got from the company. But with all cleaning supplies, I would rather be safe than sorry. Always store your cleaning supplies, mop buckets (with residue), rags, etc. up and away
from your pet's reach. Each pet reacts differently to different items. Just use common sense with storage of such products and you and your pet should have no problems.

If you ever feel that your pet has been into any type of cleaning supplies, etc. always try to identify the product and call your vet as soon as possible. Let's keep our pets safe, they are part of the family and give such unconditional love and affection.

The Humane Society of Hall County is located at 845 West Ridge Road in Gainesville. They are open 7 days per week and can be reached at (770) 532-6617. Got a question, give them a call, they are there to help! Until there are none, adopt one! And ALWAYS, spay and neuter your pet!

Teresa Biffle Duncan - Writer for the Humane Society of Hall County
Email: [email protected]