Common Canine Poisons (and what to do)

We all try our very best to keep our dog happy, healthy and safe. But, did you know that there are more than 100,000 cases of pet poisoning in the US each year? Many of these poisonings happen with everyday items that we humans use and don't really think about in regards to pet safety. Here is a list of the most common household items that cause canine poisoning:

• Common Human Foods: Foods like chocolate, xylitol, grapes, etc... can be toxic to you dog. Before you feed your dog any human food, please do your research on what is and isn't toxic for your pet. Just because humans can eat it, does not mean a dog can safely ingest.
• Insecticides: This could be a mosquito spray, bait stations or even flea/ tick treatments. Please be aware of what is within your dog's reach or what you spray onto their fur. Licking off these insecticides could can be toxic.
• Mouse and Rat Poison: Aside from just eating the poison, ingesting a rodent that has been poisoned can also be toxic to your pet.
• Common Human Medication: Tylenol, Advil, Antidepressants, etc... all of those things that we use for our aches, bumps, fevers or prescriptions. 
• Household Cleaners: Just because your cleaner is "natural" does not mean it is safe and nontoxic to your pet. Do your research and keep all cleaners safely put away where your pet can't reach. 
• Fertilizers: including bone meal, blood meal and iron-based products can be toxic to your pet.
• Vitamin D:  Yes, this vitamin is needed in your dog's diet. But, too much vitamin D can be toxic. Please do not supplement your dog without veterinarian approval.
  
• Household Plants: Some plants are safe for your pet. Other plants-- lilies, azaleas and oleander (plus more) are not safe. When gardening or bringing home a new plant, please check to make sure it is safe for your pet. 
• Chemical Hazards like antifreeze and paint thinner are common poison. Always have these items out of reach and make sure there is no leaking upon the floor or a surface your dog can lick. 
• Heavy Metals: Lead can be found in some paint, linoleum and batteries. Zinc poisoning can happen from dogs ingesting pennies. 

• Pet Medications: Sometimes a pet can  accidentally take too much medicine. Or, it may be a medicine for the pet sibling. In any case, always make sure pet medication is properly put away and you are paying close attention to who is getting what and how much is being administered. 

 So what do you do if you think your pet has been poisoned? First and foremost, before any poisoning happens, you should have your emergency veterinarians phone number in an easily accessible place. You don't want to be fumbling around on your phone searching for a number during an emergency.

1.  Call your veterinarian or emergency vet. If you are really unsure whether or not any poisoning has happened, you may call ASPCA Animal Poison Control (APCC). The phone number is: (888) 426- 4435. They do charge $60 for a consultation. 
2. Gather any remains of what your canine has ingested and place into a ziplock bag to take to the vet's.
3. If your dog has vomited, you will need to gather the vomit in a ziplock bag to take to the vet's. 

Safety Tips to Prevent Poisoning

• Always keep all medications and household cleaners out of reach and inaccessible to your pet. This may mean placing baby proof locks on your cabinets. Even child proof bottles are not safe for your dog. 
• Always follow guidelines on flea and tick products.
• Research your people foods to know what is and isn't ok to feed your dog. Keep all human food out of reach of your dog. 
• Rodent killer should be locked away in metal cabinets. Remember to let all neighbors know if you are using a rodent poison, so they can keep their furry family members safe as well. 
• Buy pet friendly plants for your home. ASPCA has a list of plants available on their website.