Poison Awareness
As a loving and responsible dog owner, you can help your dog avoid toxins and other household hazards by being informed. The K9 Encounter is here to help!
There are many, many reasons why your dog may get sick from something you personally eat or use all the time. Often, it’s simply because dog bodies aren’t designed like humans, and they just can’t process the same materials in the same way. Dogs can easily overdose on people medication or get very sick from small amounts of alcohol or caffeine.
Animal Poison Control Hotline - (888) 426-4435
Signs of Poisoning in Dogs
Beyond a mangled plant, empty bottle, or missing food, there are clinical signs that could indicate your dog has eaten a toxic food, chemical, or poisonous plant. Most common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, depression, and seizures. If you notice these symptoms and suspect your dog may have been poisoned, call your vet immediately.
Common Items in Households That May Be Toxic For Your Dog
Dogs aren’t humans, and their bodies aren’t designed to process many human foods. Also, keep household cleaning supplies, garden chemicals, and car or garage supplies where eager paws can’t go.
Alcohol in any form (beer, wine, etc.)
Caffeine in any form (coffee, tea, soft drinks, etc.)
Chocolate
Onions, leeks, or chives (including cooked or powdered versions)
Grapes and raisins
Sugarless candy, gum, or toothpaste with Xylitol
Yeasted dough (raw bread or pastry dough)
Avoid these tempting-but-toxic plants in your house or yard.
Aloe
Azaleas and rhododendrons
Chrysanthemums and other “mums”
Foxglove
Lilies
Mistletoe
Oleander
Sago palms
Tulips, hyacinths, and irises
Seek immediate emergency care for people and pets if your pet eats pesticides containing zinc phosphide, which can create lethal gases inside their bodies.
Antifreeze and other car chemicals
Bleach and detergents
De-icing chemicals and salts
Expandable foam insulation
Fertilizers and herbicides
Household cleaners, including drain and shower cleaners
Insecticides
Lead and heavy metals from batteries, paint, or linoleum
Paint and paint thinner
Pool chemicals
Rodent poisons and baits (as well as poisoned vermin)
Tar