Dangers for Dogs

Beware of these Household Hazards!

Canines are curious beasts. They enjoy exploring their surroundings with their noses and mouths and can easily ingest common household items that could be toxic! Watch out for these common culprits: 

1.  People food. Compared to dog food, people food is typically richer, higher in fat and spicier. Dogs that indulge in people food tend to experience gastrointestinal upset or in severe cases can develop inflammation of the pancreas. Chocolate is one of the more common human delights that canine tummies don't tolerate well. Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure. Macadamia nuts can cause GI upset, tremors and weakness. Avocado contains persin, which causes vomiting, and diarrhea in dogs. Sugarless gums contain xylitol, which can cause dangerously low blood sugar levels. Who knew? Read the list of people foods to avoid feeding your pets published by the ASPCA. 
2. Human pharmaceuticals. Prescription medications and over the counter drugs are meant for humans. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are toxic and should never be given to your dog without discussing it with your veterinarian. Keep your prescription pill bottles out of reach. The containers may be child proof but they probably aren’t dog proof. 
3. Veterinary pharmaceuticals. Some pills that veterinarians prescribe for dogs are flavored to make them more palatable and some taste so good that dogs think they are treats. It is important to keep all medication for your dog in a safe place and away from nosey noses and mouths. 
4. Indoor and Outdoor Plants. Some puppies just like chewing on plants while some adult dogs do it only when their stomach is upset. A few of the toxic plants to be aware of are narcissus and hyacinth bulbs, oleander, rhododendrons, cyclamen, amaryllis, yew and chrysanthemum. We found a list of Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants to Dogs on the ASPCA website. 
5. Pesticides, Insecticides, Chemicals & Cleaning Products. Mouse and rat poisons (pesticides) are made to be appetizing to encourage ingestion, but unfortunately, many dogs find them appealing as well. The most common insecticide that dogs tend to eat is ant or roach bait. They contain an attractant such as peanut butter or bread which most dogs find appealing. Antifreeze is especially attractive to dogs because of its sweetness. The toxic component in antifreeze is ethylene glycol. Dogs appear fine even after ingesting small amounts, but go into kidney failure a few days later. There is an antidote but it must be given shortly after ingestion so if you suspect ingestion seek veterinary attention immediately. Other chemicals pose dangers as well such as paint, paint thinners, solvents and pool chemicals. If a product is labeled ‘toxic’ then assume it’s toxic to animals as well as humans and store chemicals out of reach. Many household cleaning products are just as toxic for our dogs as they are to us. Consider using natural, organic cleaning solutions instead.
6. Fertilizers. Fertilizers often smell like food to dogs, even though they typically contain nitrogen, potassium and phosphorous. Insecticides and herbicides are common additives to fertilizers. Restrict access to newly-fertilized gardens and areas where fertilizer is kept. Look for organic, pet-friendly alternatives.

Be prepared for toxic emergencies. Put together a first aid kit for your dog and always keep the numbers of your regular veterinarian and emergency clinic handy.