March is Pet Poison Awareness Month
Did you know March is Pet Poison Prevention Awareness Month? It’s a great time to learn about all the things in your house, yard, and medicine cabinet that could be harmful to your pets. Because, honestly, there are a lot of them, and they’re often right out in the open.
Symptoms of Poisoning
Recognizing pet poisoning can be challenging, as symptoms may be immediate or delayed. If your pet exhibits any of the following signs of illness, it could be a sign of poisoning:
- Bloody stool
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Sensitivity to light
- Restlessness
- Rapid heart rate or difficulty breathing.
We are available to see and treat pets requiring urgent care. Please call us at (330) 665-5915 to get an appointment during business hours. MedVet Akron and Metropolitan Veterinary Hospital can assist you outside of our regular business hours.
The ASPCA Animal Poison Control can be reached at (888) 426-4435, or call the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661.
Human Medications
Both prescription and OTC medications should be off-limits to pets. The following represent the most common medications eaten by pets:
- Ibuprofen
- Naproxen
- Antidepressants
- ADHD medication
- Cold medication
- Herbal supplements
- Heart medications
Human Food
Pets are not only curious, but they’re hungry most of the time to boot. Always keep cabinet doors closed, and be sure that your pet cannot access any of the following ingredients on tables or countertops:
- Chocolate
- Alcohol
- Xylitol
- Caffeine
- Macadamia nuts
- Grapes or raisins
- Garlic, onions, chives
Chemicals and Cleaning Products
Once your kitchen is secured, take a look around the office, garage, and garden shed for any of these common chemicals known to cause problems in pets:
- Paint or paint thinner
- Glue
- Various cleaning products
- Rodenticides
- Insecticides
- Pesticides
- Antifreeze
Toxic Plants & Flowers
Chewing pets? Toxic plants are a danger. This list is not complete. To ensure your pets’ safety, it is crucial to research the toxicity of any plant or flower before planting. The ASPCA maintains a detailed list of plants and flowers that are toxic to dogs, cats and horses.
- Lilies
- Azalea
- Cyclamen
- Tulips
- Daffodils
- Hyacinths
- Crocus
- Sago palm
Our team at The Gentle Vet is always here to help your pet. If you have questions about their appearance or behavior, and suspect they got into something dangerous, please call us at (330) 665-5915.