Pet Poison Prevention Month: Essential Tips for Alpena Pet Owners in March
Without realizing it, there are many toxins your pets might come into contact with on a daily basis. Pet Poison Prevention Month helps owners identify and remove toxins to help you avoid a dangerous and scary situation.
Creating a Plan
Knowing exactly what the common toxins are, how they affect the body, symptoms to watch for, and when to seek emergency care are all part of responsible pet ownership, and a cornerstone of Pet Poison Prevention Month this March.
Know the Signs
Any changes to a pet’s appearance or behavior should be recorded and discussed with your pet’s veterinarian. Because some signs of toxicity can be subtle, and may not even appear for many hours after exposure, take a close look at your pet’s environment for any suspicious wrappers, packaging, or other evidence of possible poisoning.
Please do not delay seeking emergency veterinary care when the following symptoms are present:
- Uncharacteristic drooling
- Agitation
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Nausea
- Respiratory distress
- Seizures, tremors, or convulsions
The severity of pet poisoning depends on the type and amount of toxin ingested, absorbed, or inhaled. A pet’s age, weight, and medical history also impact the range of symptoms.
Common Pet Toxins
The following medications should always be stored behind a closed cabinet door that cannot be accessed by a pet:
- Acetaminophen
- Ibuprofen
- Naproxen
- ADHD medication
- Aspirin
- Anxiety medication
- Antidepressants
- Sleep aids
- Blood pressure pills
- Weight loss medication
- Iron supplements
- Vitamins
Also, items like toothpaste, muscle rubs, soaps, and all skin products should be stored appropriately. Allow skin items to dry or soak in before close contact with your pet.
What Pets Should Avoid
The list of foods, yard/garden products, and common household chemicals is extensive. If you ever have doubts about certain products, be sure to check out this guide from the Pet Poison Helpline. Generally, the most toxic household products include:
- Antifreeze
- Chocolate
- Insecticides
- Xylitol
- Garlic
- Onion
- Veterinary medications (always store these with your own medications, if possible)
- Rodenticide
- Alcoholic and caffeinated beverages
Likewise, the following plants should be removed or transferred to reduce the risk of pet poisoning:
- Tulips, daffodils, crocus
- Lilies
- Sago palms
- Azalea
- Rhododendrons
- Caster beans
Spring Poison Dangers for Pets
With warmer weather and greater chances to explore their environment, pets can find themselves in big trouble during the spring season. Supervise your pet’s activities outside, do a clean sweep of their space before you leave the home, and continue to watch what they get into when out and about.
Known toxins are, unfortunately, all around us, but with a little preemptive action, you can save your pet a lot of suffering. Please call our team at (989) 356‑4880 with any questions or concerns.