How to Protect Your Dog from Outdoor and Indoor Pet Toxins

We are dog lovers here at Latchkey Pets, and as dog lovers, there is no doubt that keeping your four-legged buddy safe is a top priority. If safety is top priority, this following article covers pet toxins to look out for. Most dog owners are well aware that you don’t feed your dog chocolate and keeping antifreeze and medications well out of the reach of those artful paws is important! Yet, did you know countless other things can be toxic to your dog? Some are in the home, others are in the garden, and many could be things that you have never considered a risk.

Let’s take a look at how you can make your dog’s environment a safer place, as well as what to do if you suspect that your pet has ingested something that could do it harm.

Insecticides/Rodenticides

Products for killing rodents are pet toxins and can severely harm a pet dog or cat. It is easy to think that your dog is not in any danger if the poison is out of reach; however, rodents can move the granules to other locations, and one of these could be a familiar space for your pet. Opt for other forms of pest control, such as traps or ultrasound, since they do not pose the same risk to your pet.

Fertilizers/Bone Meal

Soil amenders tend to have high nitrogen levels, and these can have severe effects on pets. Even ingesting the packaging that bone meal came in can cause problems. If your pet has any signs of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Mushrooms

Most of us know some mushrooms can be a significant health hazard to humans; however, the same is also true for our pets. The fact of the matter is that some mushrooms are non-toxic, others are highly toxic, and telling the difference can be quite the challenge. 

If your dog shows signs of lethargy, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, tremors, or seizures and there is a risk they have been in an area where mushrooms are growing, it is vital to seek assistance straight away.

Greenery

That funny picture of a dog with a mouthful of leaves from the garden can appear harmless and funny unless the wrong plant is mixed in with the leaves.

• Alcohol in all forms (not just alcoholic drinks but also be wary of foods that contain alcohol)
• Caffeine (keep in mind drinks that have caffeine in)
• Chocolate
• Grapes and raisins
• Macadamia nuts
• Salt
• Tobacco products
• Yeast products
• Xylitol

Non Edible Hazards

Just because an item is not edible to humans does not mean that your dog will have the same opinion. Look out for the following household items that could cause serious issues if your pet decides to take a munch:

• Antifreeze
• Fabric softener sheets
• Liquid potpourri
• Mothballs
• Paints
• Bleach and household cleaning solutions
• Swimming pool chemicals

Dog Products

This one may come as a surprise, but a significant hazard risk to dogs can be products designed for them, particularly flea and tick products. Overuse of such products can be deadly to your pet. Always follow the instructions carefully and ensure that any leftover product is stored securely.

What Should You Do If You Think That Your Pet Has Ingested A Toxin?

The first thing that you need to do is act without delay. Toxicity can get worse very quickly, and often acting without delay can be the difference between your pet living or not. Call Pet Poison Control for the State of Missouri as soon as you suspect that your pet has ingested something toxic. Act quickly and ensure that your pet gets the treatment that they need.