When it comes to keeping medications and dangerous chemicals locked up, we aren’t only worried about kids. You should be thinking about your pets as well. This is especially true about dogs as they are extremely curious creatures naturally. Pet Poison Helpline gets calls around the clock with pet owners that are worried about something their four legged friends have gotten into. March is Pet Poison Prevention Month and Pet Poison Helpline is urging pet owners more than ever to be mindful of their pets when it comes to substances that could be poisonous for your animals. Humane Society of Forsyth County is here to share some of the top substances that pose a threat to your pets.
Human Medications Can Kill a Dog or Cat!
Obviously, there are many medications that pose a threat for your pets. Hopefully, you have your medications up and out of reach of any pets. Unfortunately, over 40% of the calls that come in to Pet Poison Helpline are because pets have ingested over the counter and prescription medications. Most of the problems lie in antidepressants and pain killers. These can be incredibly dangerous if they are ingested by your pets.
Avoid Foods that are Harmful or Toxic to Dogs & Cats
Believe it or not, there are many foods we eat that are like poison for animals. The most common poisonous food for dogs that most people are aware of is chocolate. Dark chocolate is the most deadly because it contains high amounts of theobromine which is similar to caffeine. Some foods that many people don’t realize are poisonous are grapes and raisins. When your pets eat grapes or raisins, it can actually cause kidney failure. Also be aware of Xylitol which is a sweetener often found in some candies and gums. This can be deadly when even a small amount is eaten. Keep an eye out for these other foods that are dangerous:
– Garlic
– Onions
– Yeast-Based Dough
– Table Salt
Pesticide Poisoning in Pets
Pesticides usually pose a problem when they have been put out as baits and the animals have found them. These can be deadly even if they are the smallest amounts that have been ingested. The damage can range from moderate to severe and includes internal bleeding, swelling of the brain, kidney failure and even seizures. Whether you are trying to get rid of insects or rodents, you need to be careful of where the pesticides are placed so that your pets don’t get into them.
Dog or Cat Ate Multi Vitamins?
Not only are some vitamins and supplements dangerous for your pets, but the Xylitol sweetener found in many of them is deadly. An overdose of iron, vitamin D, or alpha-lipoic acid can be extremely dangerous.
Promoting Responsible Pet Ownership in Cumming, Georgia
During Pet Poison Prevention Month and throughout the whole year, keep in mind your pets and the access they have to dangerous substances and foods. If you are worried that your pets have gotten into something they shouldn’t have and could be in danger it is important that you call on a veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline right away. If you are looking for a four legged companion, you can find the perfect fit for your family at Humane Society of Forsyth County today!
