Urushiol oil, the irritant found in poison ivy, oak, or sumac, can remain active on a pet's fur for an extended period, often several weeks, unless it is removed. To effectively eliminate urushiol oil and prevent further irritation, it is recommended to bathe the pet with a pet-safe oatmeal shampoo as soon as possible after exposure. This type of shampoo can help soothe the skin and remove the oil. Additionally, wearing gloves during the bath ensures that the oil does not transfer to human skin.