March 18 – 24 is National Pet Poison Awareness Week. This week serves as a reminder for all pet owners to watch out for pet toxins, especially as we start our spring cleaning and gardening projects.
Here are 10 poisons to watch out for that are especially toxic to dogs.
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Chocolate
Chocolate is very toxic to dogs. Be especially vigilant about dark and bakers’ chocolate, but milk chocolate in large quantities is also dangerous.
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Xylitol
Xylitol is found in sugarless gum, candy, some medications and nasal sprays. If ingested by a dog, xylitol causes a fast drop in blood sugar and possible liver failure.
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NSAIDS
NSAIDS are a medication that is commonly found in ibuprofen (Advil, Aleve, Motrin, etc.) Ingestion by dogs can cause stomach ulcers and kidney failure.
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Over-the-Counter Cough, Cold and Allergy Medication
These types of over-the-counter medications are not good for dogs, especially any that contain acetaminophen or decongestants.
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Mouse and Rat Poison
If ingested by dogs, even a small amount can cause internal bleeding or swelling of the brain.
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Raisins and Grapes
Raisins and grapes can cause kidney damage in dogs.
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Insect Bait Stations
While the ingredients used in ant and other insect bait stations are not poisonous to dogs, many dogs are attracted to the taste and will ingest the plastic casing, causing obstruction in their bowels.
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Prescription ADD/ADHD Medication
In general, human medication is not good for dogs. However, ADD/ADHD types of medications specifically can cause tremors, seizures or other cardiac problems that could be fatal to dogs.
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Glucosamine Joint Supplements
Dogs tend to really like the taste of glucosamine but if your dog eats too much it can cause diarrhea or even liver failure.
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Silica Gel Packets and Oxygen Absorbers
These types of packets – even the ones found in dog food bags – can cause iron poisoning.
If you think your dog has been poisoned, call your vet right away!
There is also a pet poison helpline that you can call to get more information about pet poisoning. They can also give you more specific symptoms to look for and can help you determine if your dog has been exposed to something harmful.
The number to call for the Pet Poison Helpline is 800-213-6680.
If you’d like to learn more about our dog daycare, boarding or grooming services, please don’t hesitate to contact us here or call us at 719-448-9600.
Mary B Webb says
Thank you so much for the information! He’s our kid and since he can’t talk we watch his actions ,and running back and forth to see a vet is exspensive and this information helped us!
Joelle Audette says
Glad it was helpful!
Carlos says
Very interesting..my dog is acting weir lately.we worried he may have intestine problems .he cries y crouches …well take him to the vet sap..thanks for this info..
Joelle Audette says
Hope your pup feels better soon! Thanks for leaving a comment on the Canine Campus blog!
Della says
My dog atr cat poop will that make him throw up
Joelle Audette says
Dogs eating cat feces is a disgusting but normal canine behavior. It’s very common in puppies, who are exploring their world and seeking to determine what is edible in their environment. Most puppies will outgrow it, but not always. Also, some older dogs eat cat feces because they are lacking in nutrients in their own food. It is best to ensure your dog does not have access to cat feces as it may contain bacteria and parasites that can make your dog sick. Most of the time dogs will be OK but it is best to prevent your dog from eating cat feces in the future. If your dog shows signs of being sick, certainly make an appointment to have him seen by your veterinarian. Thanks for stopping by the Canine Campus blog!
Warner says
Our puppies caught Parvo. Our girl recovered fine but the boy came home and two days later was extremely sick with diareah and not eating or drinking. Spent another 10 days in the vet ICU. He finally recovered by miracle since the vet couldn’t figure it out. Several thousands later he was put on Enrofloxacin 68mg. Four weeks he been doing awesome. Week five he just came in from outside and he won’t eat when he will normally eat anything and is looking sad/ in discomfort. The same as before. LORD HELP OUR BOY ONION
Joelle Audette says
We hope your boy dog is feeling better by now. Thanks for stopping by the Canine Campus blog.
Des says
My dog has had diarrhea for two days now it’s looking like blood now she isn’t crying or whining but I stopped feeding her as it says to do with diarrhea but she isn’t stopping and I can’t afford a vet. Any advice at all?
Joelle Audette says
My suggestion is to contact your local Humane Society or animal shelter and ask for a referral to a veterinarian who will provide services on a sliding scale fee, if available. Another option is to sign up for a veterinary telehealth service like Pawp where you can receive expert veterinary advice that can help with your dog’s health concerns. We also have a couple of other articles that might be helpful in your situation. 1.) Home Remedies: How to Treat Your Dog’s Upset Stomach at Home and 10 Foods to Feed Your Dog When Sick With an Upset Stomach. I hope your dog is feeling much better by now!
raj kaul says
great articles nice work
Joelle Audette says
Thanks for visiting the Canine Campus blog! Hope you’ll visit again soon!