Preventing dog poisoning is key. Make sure to keep toxic substances out of your dog's reach, such as cleaning supplies, medications, and certain plants like lilies and tulips.
One of the most common causes of dog poisoning is ingesting chocolate, which contains a compound called theobromine.
If you suspect your dog has been poisoned, call your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline immediately.
What to Do in Case of Poisoning
If you suspect your dog has been poisoned, it's essential to act quickly. Contact your veterinarian, an emergency veterinarian, the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435, or the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661. These services are staffed 24/7 by veterinarians, including toxicologists.
Gather all the information you can about what your dog ate, including wrappers and ingredient lists, to discuss with your veterinarian. This will help them determine the best course of action.
If your dog is already showing signs of poisoning, visit your vet immediately. Never try to induce vomiting, as this can cause severe inflammation and irritation of the esophagus.
If your dog is experiencing symptoms like agitation, tremors, or seizures, it's crucial to get them to a vet right away. These symptoms can be signs of dog poisoning.
Here are some common symptoms of dog poisoning:
- Agitation
- Tremors
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Seizures
- Diarrhea
- Excessive bruising or bleeding
- Nose bleeds
- Unsteady on feet
- Abnormal heart rate
- Drooling
- Oral irritation
- Pale gums
- Inability to urinate or leaking urine
If your dog has ingested something poisonous, it's essential to remove them from any possible toxin and contact your vet immediately. Your vet will be able to advise you on the best course of action.
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Understanding Poisons
Poisons can be substances that cause damage or disturb the body's tissues, organs, or processes. Depending on the poison, clinical signs may be minimal, severe, or fatal.
The five most common types of poisoning in dogs are food poisoning, alcohol poisoning, household products poisoning, plant poisoning, and medication poisoning. Accidental poisoning in dogs occurs frequently, even with attentive pet parents.
If you suspect your dog has ingested something poisonous, prompt veterinary treatment can save a pet's life. You can call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 for immediate assistance.
Here are the five most common types of poisoning in dogs:
What Are Poisons
Poisons are substances that can cause damage or disrupt the body's normal functioning.
The effects of poisons can range from mild to severe, and even fatal.
For dogs, accidental poisoning is a common occurrence, even among attentive pet owners.
There are five common types of poisoning in dogs: food poisoning, alcohol poisoning, household products poisoning, plant poisoning, and medication poisoning.
These types of poisoning can be identified by their symptoms, which may include minimal, severe, or fatal clinical signs.
What Is?
Poisoning can occur in various forms, including gases, liquids, and solids. A poison or toxin can be natural or synthetic.
Our pets are often poisoned by ingesting something they shouldn't. This can happen even with a small amount of the toxic substance.
A poison can cause severe harm and even death if it enters the body in large enough doses. The damage can be so severe that it can lead to death if treatment isn't sought quickly.
Here are some examples of the damaging reactions caused by poisoning:
- Attacking blood cells, which can cause internal bleeding
- Limiting cellular functions, such as the ability to process protein
- Attacking the central nervous system, which can affect the brain and heart
- Slowly shutting down organs, such as the lungs, liver or kidneys
Can Cats Survive Poisoning?
Cats can be less likely to recover from poisoning due to their size, which makes even the smallest dose potentially fatal.
The grooming habits of cats can also increase their risk of ingesting toxic substances from their coats, making it more likely that they'll be poisoned.
Cats process chemicals differently from dogs, and in some cases, they can't process certain chemicals at all, which can make it harder for them to recover from poisoning.
If your cat is an outdoor cat, you may be less likely to know if they've been poisoned or even what the toxin is, making it harder to get them the help they need.
Here are some reasons why cats may be more susceptible to poisoning:
- Size – being smaller in size, even the smallest dose can prove fatal
- Grooming – being frequent groomers, they have a greater chance of ingesting toxic substances from their coats
- Ability to process chemicals – cats process chemicals differently form dogs, and in some cases cannot process certain chemicals at all
- Lifestyle – if your cat is an outdoor cat, with their roaming nature you may be less likely to know if they have been poisoned or even what the toxin is
The sooner treatment for any type of poisoning is sought, the greater the chance both cats and dogs will survive.
Signs and Symptoms
If your pet has ingested something poisonous, you may notice a range of symptoms, from mild to severe. These symptoms can vary depending on the type of toxin and the amount ingested.
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Some common mild and general signs of poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, coughing and sneezing, drooling, lack of appetite, drinking more than usual, skin irritation, swelling, or inflammation, and increased or unable to urinate.
Other symptoms can include abdominal pain, pale gums, and an abnormal heart rate.
You may also notice more severe signs such as increased heartbeat, shaking and muscle tremors, lack of coordination, trouble breathing, seizures, and extreme excitability or agitation.
It's essential to remember that not all pets will display these signs or symptoms, and some may not seem sick at all. In fact, some reactions can take longer to occur, and some substances are only toxic if ingested in large quantities.
If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, look for signs such as an open container, torn packaging, or an empty wrapper. If you find any of these, assume your pet may be at risk of being poisoned.
Here are some common symptoms to watch out for:
- Agitation
- Tremors
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Seizures
- Diarrhea
- Excessive bruising or bleeding
- Nose bleeds
- Unsteady on feet
- Abnormal heart rate
- Drooling
- Oral irritation
- Pale gums
- Inability to urinate or leaking urine
Time to Kill a Dog
Different dog poisons operate on different timelines, and some can kill a dog in mere hours.
The timeline for poisoning to kill a dog can vary greatly depending on the type of poison ingested.
Some poisons are highly lethal and can cause damage to a dog's liver, leading to medical issues or even death.
The sooner a vet treats your dog, the better odds they have of surviving, especially if there's an antidote for the poison.
For example, over-the-counter painkillers (NSAIDs) may cause damage to a dog's liver, which can lead to serious health problems.
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Top Poisons
As a responsible dog owner, it's essential to know what's poisonous to your furry friend. Prescription medications can be especially hazardous, so only give your dog medication that's been prescribed by a vet or instructed by your vet on how to safely use.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a big concern when it comes to over-the-counter medications. Excessive use of these medications can cause damage to a human liver, but it's even worse for dogs.
If your dog gets into Tylenol or ibuprofen, you should see a vet as soon as possible. These medications can lead to medical emergencies in dogs, so it's crucial to act fast.
Your home and yard may contain items that are poisonous to your dog, so it's vital to keep a close eye on them. Take a quick look around to see if there are any clues about what your dog might have gotten into if you suspect poisoning.
If you think your dog might have been poisoned, get them to the vet right away.
Common Household Poisons
Common household items can be poisonous to dogs, and it's essential to keep them out of reach. Bleach, carpet fresheners, and fabric softeners are just a few common household products that can cause issues if ingested.
Some common household products that can cause problems for dogs include bleach, carpet fresheners, fabric softeners, grout, toilet bowl tablets, and antifreeze. These products can cause burns, ulceration, esophageal strictures, and fever in addition to vomiting and diarrhea.
Here are some common household poisons to keep away from pets:
- Bleach
- Carpet fresheners and shampoo
- Fabric softeners, Febreze
- Grout - freshly laid or in the packaging
- Toilet bowl tablets
- Antifreeze
Cleaning Products, Chemicals
Cleaning products and chemicals can be just as hazardous to your pets as other household items. It's essential to keep them out of reach and safely stored.
Some of the most common household cleaners and products that can cause issues with dogs include bleach, carpet fresheners and shampoo, fabric softeners, Febreze, grout, toilet bowl tablets, and antifreeze. These products can cause burns, ulceration, esophageal strictures, and fever in addition to vomiting and diarrhea.
Bleach, in particular, is a leading cause of pet poisonings. It's essential to store it in a safe and secure location, out of reach of your pets.
Here are some common cleaning products and poisons to keep away from your pets:
- Bleach
- Carpet fresheners and shampoo
- Fabric softeners, Febreze
- Grout - freshly laid or in the packaging
- Toilet bowl tablets
- Antifreeze
Remember, even "natural" or "environmentally friendly" cleaners can still cause severe reactions in pets. Always keep them safely locked away after use.
Plant and Flower
Plant and flower poisoning is a serious concern for pet owners. Many common household plants can be toxic to dogs, causing a range of symptoms from vomiting and diarrhea to organ failure and death.
Some plants are more toxic than others, including sago palms, which can cause vomiting, bloody stool, and liver failure. Tulips, on the other hand, can lead to vomiting, depression, and heart issues.
If you suspect your dog has ingested a toxic plant, it's essential to act quickly. Some plants, like aloe, can cause vomiting, lethargy, and diarrhea, while others, like wild mushrooms, can lead to seizures, organ failure, and death.
Even seemingly harmless plants like azalea and foxglove can be deadly. Azalea can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and heart failure, while foxglove can lead to heart arrhythmias, heart failure, and death.
Other plants to watch out for include oleander, which can cause drooling, abdominal pain, and depression, and philodendron, which can cause oral irritation, burns, and swelling.
Here's a list of some common household plants to avoid:
- Sago palm: Vomiting, bloody stool, bruises, coagulopathy, liver failure, death
- Tulips: Vomiting, depression, diarrhea, drooling, heart issues
- Aloe: Vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea
- Wild, poisonous mushrooms: Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, seizures, organ failure, death
- Azalea: Vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, heart failure
- Foxglove: Heart arrhythmias, heart failure, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, death
- Oleander: Drooling, abdominal pain, diarrhea, depression, death
- Philodendron: Oral irritation, burns, swelling, drooling
Human Medications
Human medications can be a major threat to our furry friends. Prescription medications can be especially dangerous, but over-the-counter (OTC) medications like NSAIDs can also cause serious problems.
NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can cause ulcers, kidney failure, and neurological issues in dogs. These medications are commonly found in households, making them a potential hazard.
It's not just prescription medications that are a concern, but also OTC supplements and human medications in general. Dogs may quickly snatch a dropped human medication off the floor or even counter-surf and have access to entire bottles.
Here are some common human medications that can be toxic to dogs:
- Ibuprofen and naproxen
- Adderall and pseudoephedrine
- Topical creams and ointments
- Antidepressant medications
- Cigarettes and nicotine patches
- Petroleum jelly
- Kaopectate and Pepto Bismol
These medications can cause a range of symptoms, from mild to severe, and even lead to death. It's essential to keep these medications out of reach of our pets and to contact a veterinary professional immediately if we suspect ingestion.
Specific Poisons
If your dog has ingested a toxic substance, acting quickly is crucial to minimize the damage.
Xylitol, a sugar substitute commonly found in sugar-free gum and candy, can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar levels in as little as 15 minutes.
Antifreeze, containing ethylene glycol, can cause kidney failure if ingested, even in small amounts.
Alcohol
Alcohol is a toxic substance that can be deadly to dogs.
Pets should never have access to alcohol, as it can cause severe symptoms.
The absorption of alcohol in a dog's stomach is rapid, taking only about an hour.
Food can slow down the absorption process, but it's still crucial to keep alcohol out of reach.
Dogs are more susceptible to alcohol than humans, making them more vulnerable to its effects.
The amount of alcohol that is lethal to a dog depends on its weight and the type of beverage.
Here's a breakdown of the lethal amounts for a 10-pound dog:
There is no antidote for alcohol poisoning, so treatment focuses on GI decontamination and supportive care.
Anticoagulants
Anticoagulants are a type of rodenticide that can be deadly to dogs.
These toxins, found in common baits like D-Con, Warf, and Prolin, prevent the body from synthesizing vitamin K, a crucial compound for blood clotting.
If your dog eats anticoagulant toxins, it can cause uncontrolled bleeding, both internally and externally.
Bleeding can manifest in various ways, including nosebleeds, blood in vomit, rectal bleeding, coughing, easy bruising, pale mucous membranes, and even lameness due to blood-filled joints.
These symptoms can take days or weeks to appear, making it difficult to treat the poisoning.
If caught early, treatment is relatively cheap and involves vitamin K1 supplementation, induced vomiting, and activated charcoal to decrease absorption.
However, if symptoms appear before treatment, hospitalization for 24 to 48 hours may be necessary, and vitamin K1 supplementation can last for two weeks to over a month.
In severe cases, blood and plasma transfusions may be required.
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Metal
Metal poisoning is a serious concern for dogs. Zinc toxicosis can occur after ingestion of pennies minted after 1982 or zinc-containing medications.
Ingesting these metals can cause anemia, vomiting, and weakness. Zinc toxicosis is a significant risk if your dog gets into penny collection or plays with zinc-containing toys.
Lead toxicosis occurs with exposure to all forms of lead, causing issues with red blood cells, the GI tract, seizures, and other organ issues. This is a very serious condition that requires immediate attention.
Heavy metal poisoning generally requires aggressive decontamination of the GI tract, which may include emergency surgery to remove the materials.
Prevention and Treatment
Keep any potentially dangerous food and medications out of reach of your dog, and store any hazardous products in containers and cabinets.
To prevent poisoning, pet-proof your home and yard by blocking access to toxic cleaning chemicals, poisons, and other hazardous substances. If your dog is prone to scavenging, safely dispose of medications and chemicals, and food.
Some common household items can be toxic to dogs, including medications, cleaning supplies, and chocolate. Always keep these items out of reach of your dog.
If you suspect your dog has ingested something toxic, remove them from the area immediately and contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline. Never try to induce vomiting, as this can cause severe inflammation and irritation of the esophagus.
Activated charcoal can be used to bind with toxins and prevent further absorption, but this should only be done under the guidance of a veterinarian.
Treatment for poisoning will depend on the type and amount of toxin ingested, as well as the severity of symptoms. Your veterinarian may use various methods to treat poisoning, including inducing vomiting, administering activated charcoal, and providing supportive care.
Supportive care may include intravenous fluids, oxygen supplementation, and medication to manage symptoms such as pain, heart rate, and seizures. In severe cases, dialysis may be necessary to filter the kidneys.
The sooner you seek veterinary care, the better the outcome for your dog. If you suspect your dog has been poisoned, don't hesitate to contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline.
Here are some general guidelines for treating poisoning in dogs:
Remember, prevention is key when it comes to dog poisoning. By keeping hazardous substances out of reach and being aware of potential toxins, you can help keep your dog safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does milk help with dog poisoning?
No, milk does not help neutralize dog poisoning. In fact, giving milk to a poisoned dog can be more harmful due to lactose intolerance.
Can a dog recover from poisoning on its own?
Prompt medical attention is crucial for a dog's recovery from poisoning, as delaying treatment can be life-threatening. Treatment by a veterinarian is usually necessary to ensure the best possible outcome
Sources
- Pet Poison Helpline (petpoisonhelpline.com)
- ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control (aspca.org)
- Ibuprofen Toxicity in Dogs and Cats (vin.com)
- Mushroom Poisoning in Dogs and Cats (vin.com)
- Allium (Garlic/Onion) Toxicosis (Canine) (vin.com)
- Pets and Poisons (everything you need to know) (animalemergencyservice.com.au)
- https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/ (petpoisonhelpline.com)
- https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control (aspca.org)
- http://npic.orst.edu/health/petpoison.html (orst.edu)
- https://www.msdvetmanual.com/toxicology/food-hazards/raisin-and-grape-toxicosis-in-dogs (msdvetmanual.com)
- https://www.merckvetmanual.com/special-pet-topics/poisoning/general-treatment-of-poisoning (merckvetmanual.com)
- https://www.merckvetmanual.com/toxicology/rodenticide-poisoning/overview-of-rodenticide-poisoning (merckvetmanual.com)
- www.petpoisonhelpline.com (petpoisonhelpline.com)
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org)
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