Poison Oak is a West Coast thing. I think Poison Ivy is just a Midwest/South thing. FYI - Poison Oak grows mostly at the base of Oak trees (thus the name) and around bodies of water. IT REALLY SUCKS!!!! I got it many-a-time growing up, but have been vigilant in avoiding it now that I'm an "adult". Drake loves to play in water, big surprise for a Newf, and goes plowing through Poison Oak bushes all the time. The problem is, you can't wash your dog every day, especially a Newf. It messes up their fur and gives them skin problems. The best thing to do is thoroughly wipe your dog down with damp towels after they have been exposed to Poison Oak and then shed your clothes, wash them and shower yourself. According to my late stepdad, who was a Dermatologist, you have approx. 30 min. to clean off Poison Oak before a rash forms. It's the oil on their leaves and stems that cause the rashes. The oil production gets worse as the Summer gets hotter and Poison Oak goes from green to purple leaves. It is still present when the leaves fall off and the plant is just bare branches. God forbid you get any of that horrible plant on your privates or in your eyes! Some people are unaffected by it and claim they can roll around in it with no problems, but most people aren't like that. The best thing to do to get rid of Poison Oak is spray it with Roundup[/color] You can find it at most Hardware stores and nurseries. It really works and will get rid of P.O. quickly. Good luck!!!!!