Dog Poisoning
..... what to do in an emergency
No matter how carefully you puppy-proof your home, dog poisoning is a possibility. In spite of your best precautions, your little one may eat or drink a dangerous or even poisonous substance at some point in their life.
If the worst happens, knowing what to do, having the right information close at hand, and reacting quickly could make the difference between life and death for your precious pooch.It's pretty surprising how many products, substances, plants, foods and other 'stuff' that we normally have in our homes can be poisonous, hazardous or even toxic to our pets!
Many of the thousands of dog poisoning incidents that happen each year (according to the ASPCA 130,000 in 2007), are caused by these items - - Human medications - both prescription and OTC. Top offenders are Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen (Tylenol). Iron tablets and vitamins are also dangerous.
- Household cleaning products. There are obvious ones like Bleach, but even dishwashing detergent is dangerous.
- Antifreeze. This is a big one. Antifreeze is attractive to dogs due to it's sweet taste, but just a tiny amount can be fatal very, very quickly.
- Mouse/rat poison and similar products that kill other household critters, including insecticides. This may seem obvious, but it's surprising how many times people forget about the mouse bait under the sink or whatever - and we all know how inquisitive puppies are. A lethal combination.
- Plants. There are many common plants (both indoor and outdoor varieties) that are toxic to dogs, and other pets. Most of us know that Poinsettias are toxic, and Holly, Mistletoe and Christmas/Pine tree needles are a no-no. But you may be surprised to know that every-day plants like Daffodils, Chrysanthemums, Azaleas, Lilies and Tulips (among others) are also poisonous.
- Human Food. There is a whole list of human food items that are toxic to dogs. You may already know that chocolate is extremely toxic for your pup, but did you know that many other candies and gum, avocados, raisins/grapes and garlic are also on the toxic list? You can find a more comprehensive list of foods that cause dog poisoning on my Poisonous Foods page
Here's a checklist of what to do if the worst happens and you suspect dog poisoning.
- Don't panic
This is important. Time is of the essence and you don't want to waste it because your panic-stricken brain refuses to function. - Collect evidence
Pick up any bottles, containers or packaging that the poisonous substance was in. If possible collect any of the leftover item too. This will help the Poison Control staff or your own veterinarian/emergency vet clinic determine what the possible effects of the poison may be, and how best to treat it. - Review your dog's vital statistics
Make sure you know (jot these down if your brain is a bit shaky) your dogs breed, weight, age and any symptoms he may be showing. Try to jot down important info such as what your dog ingested, how long ago your dog ingested it, any symptoms you've noticed and so on. You'll need this information for the medical/veterinary personnel. - Call for help
Call the ASPCA Animal Control Center at 1-888-426-4435 or 1-800-548-2423 (there is likely to be a $60 charge for this service)or your own veterinarian or one of your city's 24 hour Emergency Animal Hospitals.You can also call the International Animal Poison Control Center Hotline at 1-888-232-8870 which is available 24 hours a day. There is also a similar charge for this service. It's a good idea to always have these phone numbers written or posted somewhere easy to find in an emergency. Taped inside a kitchen cupboard or on a central notice board in your home are good places. Make sure every member of your household knows where they are. - Don't 'wait & see'
Always seek veterinary help immediately if you know, or even suspect, your pup has ingested something toxic or potentially dangerous.
Click here
to find out what dangerous and even toxic foods are in your kitchen right now!With some poisons, the effects aren't immediately obvious and symptoms may take hours (or occasionally days) to appear. By then it could be too late to prevent or reverse serious illness or even the death of your beloved pooch.
If your veterinarian or medical personnel advise you to induce vomiting in your puppy you can try this.
Make up a 1 to 1 solution of 3% hydrogen peroxide and water to give to your dog.
Approx. 1 tbsp of this mixture per 10lbs of his body weight is about right. Use a measuring medicine spoon (like the ones babies use) or a turkey baster to make things a bit easier. |
Dog poisoning happens, and so do accidents, it's a sad fact of life. However, if you're prepared for the worst, you'll be in a much better position to avoid a 'worst-case-scenario'.Having a good veterinary handbook and a first aid kit handy could make all the difference in an emergency situation....
Poisonous Foods
Basic Dog First Aid Supplies
Treating Dog Wounds
Return from Dog Poisoning to Homepage
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