Removal of Aerosolized Contaminants from Working Canines via a Field Wipe-Down Procedure

摘要

Aerosolized particulates are potential sources of contamination for working dogs across a variety of environments. This work describes a simple wipe-down procedure using common veterinary antiseptic cleansers that may be effective for decontamination purposes. Dilute povidone-iodine scrub wipes were more effective than dilute chlorhexidine-gluconate scrub wipes or water at removal of aerosolized water-borne particulates from the coat of working dogs. Coat differences associated with common breeds did not change efficacy of the wipe-down procedure or cleanser. These novel data describe a simple, field expedient procedure for a wipe-down that may effectively reduce aerosolized particulates on the coats of working dogs.