White and Black Dog Outside with Owner

March is Poison Prevention Month

Poisoning is a pretty scary thing to happen to our pets, and thus, we need to be vigilant of what our pets put inside their mouths as pet owners. This month of March is known as Poison Prevention Month.

There are plenty of things that can be poisonous to our pets that you need to be aware of. They may be safe for human consumption but not for pets.

Common Household Toxins

  • Ibuprofen (Advil), acetaminophen (Tylenol), and naproxen (Aleve) at tiny doses can induce significant stomach and intestinal ulcers, as well as renal failure.
  • Prescription drugs: Anti-inflammatory and pain relievers, as well as antidepressants and blood pressure medications, are particularly hazardous owing to the potential of neurological issues such as seizures, high heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature.
  • Chocolate: Chocolate includes theobromine, a substance that dogs cannot digest, as well as caffeine. Theobromine is present in darker chocolate, which makes it more poisonous.
  • Xylitol: This sweetener, commonly used in sugar-free meals, produces a fast drop in blood sugar, leading to fatigue and seizures.
  • Rodenticides: In some circumstances, pets may discover and consume the poison, while in others, particularly with cats, exposure may occur when a poisoned rodent is consumed.
  • Cleaning items and chemicals: It may seem self-evident, but most cleaning products and chemicals, from antifreeze to pool and hot tub chemicals, are hazardous to pets – and sometimes weirdly alluring.
  • Plants: From bulb to bloom, lilies, tulips, daffodils, and sago palms are among the most hazardous houseplants and flowers for dogs.
  • Grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, macadamia nuts, and cherries are among the things you should catch quickly if they fall to the ground. 

If you believe your pet has consumed any of these products, or any other potentially poisonous chemical, contact the Pet Poison Helpline or your veterinarian. It’s critical to identify the suspicious chemical accurately and quickly, and having the container, packaging, or label on hand will save you time and maybe save your pet’s life.

Symptoms & Signs

Animals that have been poisoned may act abnormally or show minor signs. They may include the following:

  • Vomiting or diarrhea, especially if there is blood involved.
  • Drooling excessively
  • Satiation
  • Lethargy or agitation
  • Pale gums
  • Tremors or a seizure
  • Collapse

We urge that all pet caregivers have the following materials on hand to learn the warning indications of accidental ingestion:

  • Animal Poison Control Center of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
  • Poison Helpline for Pets*

Make a Poison First Aid Kit for Your Pet

In the case of an emergency, emergency pet supplies and resources are available.

  • Phone numbers and addresses are written on a notebook or index card and kept dry in a sealable sandwich bag.
  • Your local veterinary clinic for referrals
  • The location of the nearest emergency veterinary facility (as well as directions!)

Pet poisoning from everyday household products is a typical occurrence. For quick access to sources of information about hazardous chemicals, having local poison control centers and veterinary emergency clinics is also crucial. A pet will receive therapy determined by exposure to poisons, and vomiting induction is necessary, while IV fluid treatment and oral charcoal therapy are recommended.

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