Keep Your Pet Safe from Potential Poisons
According to the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center, in 2009 they handled over 140,000 cases of pets exposed to toxic substances. Many of the poisonings could have been avoided if precautions were taken.
What to do if my pet is poisoned?
If you see your pet ingest a poisonous substance, call your veterinarian immediately. If your veterinarian is not immediately available, call the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center. Usually, there is a small fee charged to your credit card to discuss a poisoning. Make sure that you have the label or container available to read the ingredient list off to the poison control center or veterinarian. The poison control center will then tell you what signs to watch for, if your pet needs immediate treatment and what that treatment should consist of.
Do I need to make my pet vomit?
If the poisoning occurred within the last three hours, part of the treatment may be inducing vomiting. Check with your veterinarian or the Animal Poison Control Center first as some chemicals can cause severe damage to the esophagus, if vomited up. Vomiting should never be induced if the pet is unconscious, seizing, not able to stand, or having trouble breathing.
Top 10 Pet Poisons of 2009 (from the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center)
- Human Medications.
- Insecticides. This often includes flea and tick products not used correctly or used on the wrong species. Many dog flea/tick products will kill cats.
- People Food. Grapes, raisins, avocado, chocolate and gum with xylitol are the most common.
- Plants. Azalea, rhododendron, sago palm, lilies, kalanchoe, schefflera are some of the most common.
- Veterinary Medications. Medications misapplied or pets given the wrong dose.
- Rodenticides. Rat and mouse poison.
- Household Cleaners. Bleach, detergents, disinfectants.
- Heavy Metals. Zinc, lead, mercury from paint, linoleum, and dust from remodeling.
- Garden Products. Fertilizer is a common problem.
- Chemicals. Ethylene glycol antifreeze, paint thinner, drain cleaners, pool chemicals.
For more information:
www.petpoisonhelpline.com 1-800-213-6680
www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control 1-888-426-4435
Disclaimer: This written content is meant to be educational and is not medical advice. Always consult a veterinarian about medical advice for your pet.