Dog Poisons!

Unfortunately, dogs have a habit of eating things they aren't supposed to. Whether it be kitty litter or crickets it is important to look out for your puppy to make sure they don't ingest certain things!

1) Certain plants. There are a surprising number of plants that are actually poisonous to dogs! Most reputable stores (Lowe's, Home Depot, Walmart) can tell you if the flower you are purchasing can hurt animals, however it's usually wise to research plants native to your area as well. Some of the plants we have trouble with here in Florida includes Lantana (common garden flower) and Soda Apple (pesky weed).

2) Chocolate! Most people know that chocolate should under NO CIRCUMSTANCES be given to a dog. Just a little bit can do a lot of damage and too much can actually prove to be lethal!

3) Household Cleaners. Make sure you keep all cleaners out of reach of your pets. You may also choose to use "green" or "natural" cleaners when cleaning areas where your dog has easy access. When mopping keep your dog away from the area until it is dry and use a natural cleaner in case she decides to lick the floor!

4) Medicine. As with cleaners make sure you keep any and all medication where they are unable to reach it!

5) Insect/Rodent Poison: Rat poison, cockroach spray, etc. is very dangerous for your dog. Keep these things out of reach or use a humane trap to catch mice whenever possible. "Sticky" traps are good for catching mice, and although your dog may look a little funny when he accidently sticks his tail to it, it generally won't injure him. Keep in mind that the dog doesn't need to necessarily eat the poison in order to experience negative effects! A dog that eats a rat that has eaten poison, may inadvertantly poison himself!

6) Snakes, frogs, lizards, slamanders etc. Certain types of reptiles or insects may also make your dogs sick. Frogs are a particularly bad one here in Florida. Research the poisonous wildlife in your area and see what can be done about prevention or treatment.

7) Coins, small toys, magnets, etc. Make sure you keep any small object off the ground if you are worried your puppy my eat it. Magnents can be especially dangerous so call the vet IMMEDIATELY if you suspect she ate a magnet.

8) Antifreeze! Antifreeze is very dangerous to dogs and should never be in reach of any pet! Call the vet if your dog has swallowed antifreeze. If it was swallowed less than two hours ago he will probably ask you to attempt to induce vomiting. (See below)

Prevention:

Keep poisinous items out of reach of you pets, or put child locks on cabinets containing these things.

Symptoms:

Unsual behavior such as excessive running and jumping. A lethargic or aggresive attitude. Unexplained change in stool quality. Excessive vomiting. Eating grass. Excessive drooling or slober.

Treatment:

ALWAYS call your vet if you are worried your dog may have eaten something that has made him sick. Ask him if he would like you to administer hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting. NEVER induce vomiting unless the vet has instructed you to do so, vomiting can in some cases cause more problems. If is generally not useful if the poisonous item was swallowed more than two hours ago, or if your dog swallowed any sort of household cleaner.  If the vet does suggest that she vomit, 3% Hydrogen Peroxide may be used (Not hair-dying strength peroxide!). A syringe is the easiest way to administer the peroxide. Your dog should receive 1 teaspoon per 10lbs. body weight. After administering, wait for 10 minutes and if nothing happens ask your vet if you should give more peroxide. *Syrup of Ipecac is generally not recommended of use in dogs.

My Story:

I used to own a Beagle mix named April. She was a rescue dog that had been starving when she was found. It is common for dogs that were once emaciated or starving to eat everything possible because they will carry with them the fear that they may not get another meal. April would eat everything in sight if you weren't careful, usually without chewing it. One day I walked into the bathroom to discover that she had gotten a tampon from the trash and eaten the entire thing! (I know a little gross, but I promise it's a truly valuable lesson) Anyway I immediately called the vet. He told me NOT to induce vomiting because the tampon may become lodged in her throat on the way back up. Instead he told me to feed her as much vegetable oil as possible to help "lubricate" things. As I mentioned she'd eat anything so she had no problem drinking the oil. As the oil began to work it's magic she definitely looked like she didn't feel good however, everything began to pass through rather quickly. We had to watch her all night to make sure nothing became "clogged" and she remained "lubricated" for a few days but she was ultimately okay! We always made sure our trash cans had dog-proof lids after that!