March is National Animal Poison Prevention Month and it is a great time to take extra steps to keep your beloved pet safe from dangerous substances. Every year, thousands of pets fall ill due to accidental poisoning, and many of these cases can be prevented with simple steps. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to protect your pet from poisonous substances, including which common household items can be toxic, how to prevent accidental ingestion, and what to do if your pet has been exposed to a poisonous substance.
Insecticides and Pesticides
Pesticides and insecticides come in many different forms such as baits, sprays, dusts, and foggers. These products can contain harmful substances that can cause poisoning and even death in pets if ingested.
Common household pesticides that are dangerous for dogs include:
• Insecticides: These include flea and tick products, insect repellents, and ant or roach killers. These products are often highly concentrated and contain toxins that can cause severe vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, seizures, and respiratory failure in dogs.
• Rodenticides: Rat poisons and rodent bait blocks contain ingredients that can cause vomiting, difficulty breathing, weakness, and even death if ingested. It is important to keep these items in sealed containers away from your pup.
• Lawn and garden treatments: Herbicides and fertilizers contain ingredients that can be toxic to dogs if ingested. They can cause irritation to the skin and eyes, as well as stomach upset and organ damage.
It is important to store all pesticides and insecticides out of the reach of your pet. If you think your dog has ingested any type of pesticide, seek veterinary care immediately.
Cleaning Products
Cleaning products are one of the most common causes of pet poisoning, due to their wide availability and ease of access. Be sure to keep all cleaning products out of reach of your pet and away from any areas they can access. Always store them in a secure place, such as a cabinet, and check the labels before using them. If you're worried about your pet's exposure to toxins, look for green cleaning products that are non-toxic and safe for your pet's health.
Medications
Most medications prescribed for humans are not safe for our canine companions, and even the most seemingly harmless drug can be dangerous for your dog’s health. Some of the most common household medications that are dangerous for dogs include acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil and Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), and antidepressants. Additionally, if you are taking any prescription drugs, you should always double check with your veterinarian before giving any to your dog. If your dog has gotten into any medications, contact your veterinarian or pet poison helpline immediately for help.
To learn more about keeping your pets safe from hazardous substances visit https://www.aspcapro.org/resource/pet-poison-prevention-infographics-and-resources
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