Poison Protection and Prevention is KEY!
It’s rather scary when you’re uncertain whether your pet ingested something foreign/toxic and what it may have been. Plus, sometimes symptoms are delayed. There have been cases where we found out animals ingested toxins, ONLY because of elevated blood levels. There were no outward signs or symptoms. With Sago Palms, grapes, and raisins, signs or symptoms may appear months to years later. However, the animal’s lifespan may be shortened due to ingestion.
On the other hand, if you believe your animal has ingested toxins because of vomiting or what appears to be nausea, the first step is to get them to a vet right away. (I recommend every responsible pet owner have a rolodex with emergency contacts. Whether in your cell phone contacts or on your fridge, it’s helpful to know the number to the closest 24-hour veterinarian.)
If possible, describe what was ingested and the amount. Have the packaging nearby, so you can explain the exact contents. For example, there are different types of rat poison. One affects the brain. One affects the blood. You want to be able to tell the vet which kind your pet ingested because one has a cure; the other does not.
If you feel the need to induce vomiting right away, peroxide can be used to help them regurgitate. However, blood work would also be needed to determine how the toxins are affecting the pet, internally.
Doc, how can I prevent my pets from getting in contact with harmful plants and substances?
Spring and summer can pose a greater risk with outdoor hazards. So, first things first, know your environment! Know which plants are in your neighborhood and avoid planting them in your own yard if you know they can harm your pets. For example, avoid Oleander all together because you don’t want your dog digging up its roots.
-Regarding household food: Just don’t give it to them. If you have children in your family and/or visiting friends, make sure they do not feed your pet anything other than designated pet food.
-Ensure your trash cans are closed and unavailable for your beloved pets to knock over and indulge.
-Keep any other waste materials out of reach. (We know dogs, especially, can be curious.)
-Use proper poison control when attempting to kill vermin.
Raising awareness is key, so your home is protected against unforeseen situations. With smaller animals, results could become fatal more quickly. Some animals are simply curious. So, inspect your home for all potential hazards.
There are more than 200,000 cases of pet poisoning in the United States, annually, and treatment can be costly. From Emergency Room exams, to x-rays, tests, and medications, being timely in identifying trouble and getting assistance can be a life or death matter and one of cost preservation.
Prevention in and around your home is key!
