Pet Poisons.. and other environmental concerns
If you suspect that your pet has ingested something that could be harmful, don't hesitate to seek immediate veterinary advice!
Pet Poison Helpline (800 - 213 - 6680)
is available 24 hrs a day, 365 days a year. There is a one-time, per incident consultation fee of $35.
is available 24 hrs a day, 365 days a year. There is a one-time, per incident consultation fee of $35.
Be sure to have the following information ready when calling:
What your pet ingested and when
How much your pet ingested (how many pills, what milligram strength they were, etc.)
Pet's current weight
Pet's known medical history, including any medications (prescriptions and supplements)
What your pet ingested and when
How much your pet ingested (how many pills, what milligram strength they were, etc.)
Pet's current weight
Pet's known medical history, including any medications (prescriptions and supplements)
Common Dog Poisons to Watch Out For
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Foods
Chocolate Grapes, raisins, & currants Fatty table scraps Onions & garlic Macadamia nuts Unbaked bread dough Alcohol Compost Avacado |
Around the House
Human medications Insect bait stations Rodenticides (mouse & rat poison) Fertilizers Xylitol-containing products such as sugar-free gums and candies IBuprofen (Advil or Motrin in brand name or generic form) Acetaminophen (Tylenol in brand name or generic form) Silica gel packs Amphetamines, such as ADD/ADHD drugs Household cleaners Certain plants and flowers - always check plant toxicity online before purchasing and keep an eye around your property. |
I think my pet's been poisoned. What should I do? What Should I NOT do
In the event of a pet poisoning emergency, remain calm. It's important that you keep a level head so that you can properly assess the situation and communicate clearly with your veterinarian.
Scan the Surroundings
Get a handle on the situation by following these guidelines:
Safely remove any remaining poisonous material from your pet's reach.
Gather the container or substance to bring to the veterinary hospital or to describe to the Pet Poison Helpline expert.
Collect a sample of any material that your pet may have vomited.
If your pet has ingested something that could be harmful, the prognosis is always better when immediately reported; it's safer for your pet and less expensive to treat before your pet has developed symptoms. That's because decontamination (like vomiting, having the stomach pumped, or administering activated charcoal) can only be performed within a narrow window of time.
Even if your pet is not immediately exhibiting signs of poisoning, it's important to seek professional advice if you suspect that your pet has ingested a poisonous substance. When in doubt, call for help first.
Scan the Surroundings
Get a handle on the situation by following these guidelines:
Safely remove any remaining poisonous material from your pet's reach.
Gather the container or substance to bring to the veterinary hospital or to describe to the Pet Poison Helpline expert.
Collect a sample of any material that your pet may have vomited.
If your pet has ingested something that could be harmful, the prognosis is always better when immediately reported; it's safer for your pet and less expensive to treat before your pet has developed symptoms. That's because decontamination (like vomiting, having the stomach pumped, or administering activated charcoal) can only be performed within a narrow window of time.
Even if your pet is not immediately exhibiting signs of poisoning, it's important to seek professional advice if you suspect that your pet has ingested a poisonous substance. When in doubt, call for help first.
To Vomit or Not To Vomit
Many people assume that they should induce vomiting if their pet has ingested something poisonous. However, forcing your pet to vomit could actually cause more harm or even be dangerous if done improperly or at the wrong time.
Keep these guidelines in mind:
If your pet is already showing signs of poisoning, it's too late to induce vomiting.
If your pet has certain medical problems (like laryngeal paralysis or brachycephalic syndrome), inducing vomiting is not recommended and can make your pet's condition worse.
Certain toxins (such as corrosive cleaners and hydrocarbons such as gasoline, paint thinners and kerosene) should NOT be brought back up. Inducing vomiting after the ingestion of a corrosive material may ultimately cause more harm to your pet.
MOST IMPORTANT: ALWAYS SEEK VETERINARY ADVICE BEFORE ADMINISTERING ANY KIND OF TREATMENT YOURSELF.
Keep these guidelines in mind:
If your pet is already showing signs of poisoning, it's too late to induce vomiting.
If your pet has certain medical problems (like laryngeal paralysis or brachycephalic syndrome), inducing vomiting is not recommended and can make your pet's condition worse.
Certain toxins (such as corrosive cleaners and hydrocarbons such as gasoline, paint thinners and kerosene) should NOT be brought back up. Inducing vomiting after the ingestion of a corrosive material may ultimately cause more harm to your pet.
MOST IMPORTANT: ALWAYS SEEK VETERINARY ADVICE BEFORE ADMINISTERING ANY KIND OF TREATMENT YOURSELF.
There are so many chemicals in our environment these days its important we consider ways we can reduce exposure to ourselves, children and pets! Here are some thoughts to consider... How important is having a green weed free lawn..? We refrain from using garden pesticides & herbicides.. We choose to use simple, limited ingredients soaps .. no perfumes and unnecessary additives. We never routinely vaccinate dogs annually as was once thought to be best... rather we pull titers measuring the current levels of protection or immune status in our dogs. We have discovered across the board that FAR FEWER vaccinations were actually required! The test to measure antibodies might cost you a little more than just sticking with routine vaccinations BUT in the long run might be actually better protecting your dogs health and even saving you larger health care costs down the road. Also investing in quality diets for your dogs is a great investment in long term health! Dont assume product advertising claims to be accurate .. instead do your homework. WE recommend THE WHOLE DOG JOURNAL as a great source of up to date information on this and many other topics regarding your dog's health and well being!