Household toxins and your dog
There are many products we keep in our houses that can be harmful to dogs. Ingestion of toxic substances can lead to an upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and even organ failure and death. Some substances such as pesticides and acetone can be dangerous to dogs even if not ingested. They can cause harm by being inhaled or absorbed through the skin.
Commercial pesticides are the most common cause of dog
poisonings. Fly baits containing methomyl such at Stimukil and slug baits are particularly dangerous. Methomyl is rapidly absorbed into the skin, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract and is broken down in the liver. Vomiting, seizures and death are the most common signs of ingestion. Mole and gopher baits and rat
poisons are also dangerous to dogs. Avoid using any of these in areas where accessible to your dog and keep packages of pesticides safely locked away.
Human medications are second to pesticides in causing animal
poisoning. They can be lethal to dogs and should be kept out of reach. Even common pain relievers can be dangerous to dogs. One regular strength 200 milligram ibuprofen can cause stomach ulcers in a 10 pound dog; ingestion of two or more can cause seizures and coma. The most commonly reported medications involved in animal
poisonings are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory painkillers such as ibuprofen, antidepressants, cold and flu medicines and diet pills.
Seasonal products can also contain
toxins hazardous to your dog. Christmas tree water contains fertilizers that can upset the stomach. Stagnant tree water also can breed bacteria, leading to vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea if ingested. Other dog
toxins include household cleaners, rubbing alcohol, ice-melting products, batteries, paint, boric acid, hair coloring, and other human grooming products such as shampoo and petroleum products. The best prevention is to keep these items out of your dogs reach.
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