We use many products in our daily lives that can be hazardous and even deadly to our pets. It is vital that we use hazardous products responsibly and we need to be diligent about keeping poisons out of our pets’ reach.
In 2009, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center in Urbana, Illinois, dealt with more than 140,000 cases of pets exposed to toxic substances. These substances include everyday household products.
In 2009, the ASPCA claims that medications for humans made number one on the list of common hazards. Don’t let pill vials or packages lay around. Inquisitive dogs can easily access them and gobble them down before you have a chance to stop them.
Insecticides are a common source of poisoning. The misuse of flea and tick products leads the list of dog insecticide poisoning. Be sure to read product instructions before using this type of product. It is wise to speak to your dog’s veterinarian before using flea and tick products.
People food such as chocolate can be very hazardous to a dog’s health. It is important to familiarize yourself with the list of human foods that should never be given to dogs. Visit http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/people-foods.html for more information.
Common houseplants such as lilies and schefflera can be very toxic to pets. Keep plants out of your pet’s reach.
Surprisingly, medications prescribed by veterinarians are often a source of poisoning because they are not applied properly. Read the instructions and follow them. Do not deviate from the doctor’s orders.
Rat and mice poisons contain ingredients that attract pets. If using these products, place them in areas that your pet cannot get to.
Common household products such as bleach and cleaners can be very hazardous to animals and humans. Don’t use these products in areas that are not well ventilated. Do not allow your pet to walk on surfaces that are still wet from cleaning products.
Heavy metals found in products such as paint chips and older linoleum are another source of poisoning. Lead, zinc and mercury are common causes of poisoning among animals.
Many garden products such as fertilizers and weed killers are hazardous to animals. If you use these products, it is best to keep Fido out of the garden.
Chemical hazards include items such as antifreeze, paint thinners, pool or spa chemicals and drain cleaners. These can be deadly to pets. Never leave these chemicals anywhere where pets can access them.
If you suspect your pet has gotten into a poison substance, you need to take immediate action. Call your veterinarian immediately. If you cannot get through, you can call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center day or night at (888) 426-4435. There is a $65 fee.
Gather all the information you can about the product you suspect your pet ingested. It is helpful to the veterinarian if you have the container the product came in because it has important information about the type of poison and treatment.
Take a moment to visit http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/what-to-do-if-your-pet-is-poisoned.html. Familiarize yourself with it before an accident happens!
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