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Pet Information
Pet Information
Pets are not immune from poisonings, accidental or intentional. Dogs are especially prone to poisonings as they
can and do eat almost anything. Head off potential pet dangers with some preventive measures.

  • Feed pets only pet food. The fat content from table scraps can cause pancreatitis in dogs. Never give
    pets human food that you think might be spoiled. Animals can get sick from bad food as easily as humans.

  • Lock up dangerous garage or storage area items such as insect killers or fertilizers before confining your
    pet in these areas.

  • Choose a snail bait (metaldehyde) that does not look like pet food. The pellet formulation is responsible for
    many serious poisonings each year. Snail bait in the sawdust/powder formulation scattered in
    flowerbed's is safer.

  • Some mouse and insect killing products use peanut butter as an attractant. The peanut butter is also
    attractive to dogs. Keep pets in mind when placing these products around your home.

  • Clean up immediately after using household and automotive products. Antifreeze has a sweet taste that is
    attractive to animals. Even a small amount lapped up from the floor or driveway can cause kidney failure
    or death.

  • Use pesticides, such as flea repellant sprays or shampoos, with care. Read warning labels before use.
    Never use dog products on cats, as cats are much more sensitive to the toxic effects of products.
    Discontinue use immediately if any unusual symptoms appear.

  • Never transfer toxic products into jars or bowls from which pets can drink.

  • Don't leave medications within reach of pets. If you drop a pill, pick it up before your pet finds it and eats it.

  • Always check with a veterinarian before medicating pets. Many of the common over-the-counter
    medications (acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen) can cause severe toxicity in both dogs & cats, even with
    just one tablet. Instead of treating your pet, you could be poisoning it.

  • Don't allow your dog to eat chocolate. Chocolate contains an ingredient called theobromine, which acts
    very much like caffeine. Too much theobromine can cause vomiting, diarrhea, nervousness, restlessness,
    excitement, tremors, seizures and even coma.

  • Don't feed your pets alcohol or illicit drugs. It is dangerous. Many pets have had to be treated at an
    emergency vet clinic because of the folly of their owners.

  • If you live in a tick-infested area, check your pets frequently, especially if they have been out for an
    extended period of time. Refer to the Lyme disease section to learn proper removal of ticks.

  • Select houseplants with care. Some plants considered non-toxic to humans can be toxic to pets. See the
    plant section for more information.

  • Make sure curious, young pets have safe, non-toxic chewable toys and snacks available. When young
    pets are teething, they will eat or chew on almost anything.

  • Have the phone number of your veterinarian and the emergency vet number posted. Keep the Poison
    Center number handy. If you suspect a pet poisoning, do not wait to call. Prompt attention may make a
    crucial difference to your pet.

  • To vomit dogs at home (under the direction of a health professional), 3% household hydrogen peroxide is
    used. Have a bottle on hand and always call before using it.

The three most common causes of serious poisonings in dogs are snail baits containing metaldehyde, rat poisons
containing blood thinners and ethylene glycol antifreeze. Only a little can cause life-threatening poisoning.
Treatment is prolonged and expensive! With care, you can prevent poisoning your pet.
-Pet Poisoning Prevention Tips-