Pet Safety: Poison Prevention

March is Poison Prevention Month, with spring fully under-way we wanted to help raise awareness for common plants and household items that are toxic to your pets. Dogs and cats love exploring and sometimes might get into things you wouldn’t expect. While most items in your home may be safe around your dog or cat, there are many foods, plants, and medications that can cause them harm. These can cause anything from a mild upset tummy or skin irritation, to death. It is important to be aware of these items and to have a plan in place if something were to happen.

At the end of this post, we have listed two poison control hotlines. In an emergency situation it can be difficult to remember important resources. Because of this, we recommend putting these in your phone and printing. It is a good idea to put these numbers in handy areas around your house, such as a refrigerator. We also recommend keeping your Veterinarian’s information with these numbers. Again, keeping this information accessible can mean the difference between life and death for your pet!

With the weather continuing to warm up, many plants will be sprouting and blooming and your pet may be tempted to smell or even taste them. Here is a list of common plants that are toxic to pets. It is important to know that this is not a full list, and to contact your Veterinarian or Poison Control Hotline if you notice your pet eating any plants.

• Azalea
• Foxglove
• Hydrangea
• Amaryllis
• Cyclamen
• Daffodils
• Milkweed
• Eucalyptus
• Elephant Ear
• Clematis
• Oleander
• Bird of Paradise
• Tulips

It is important for you to be aware when walking your dog or taking your pet other places, that they are not eating or getting too close to strange plants.

There are many other household items that can be harmful to your pet. Medications, cleaning chemicals, and certain foods are best kept well out of reach of your dog or cat. A pill bottle that falls on the floor is a tempting toy for your pet. Many Veterinarians will give the “Okay” to give Benadryl to your pet, but it is essential that you consult with them to ensure that it will not interfere with any other medications they are on or any underlying conditions. Your Veterinarian can also help you find the best dosage for your pet.

Below is a list of common medications and other household items that could be detrimental to your pet’s health.

Common Cat Poisons

• Topical spot-on insecticides
• Household cleaners
• Antidepressants
• Human and veterinary NSAIDs
• Cold & flu medication
• Glow sticks
• ADD/ADHD medications and amphetamines
• Mouse/rat poison and other pest repellants

Common Dog Poisons

• Chocolate
• Mouse and rat poison, other insecticides
• Vitamins and minerals
• NSAIDs
• Cardiac medications
• Cold & allergy medications
• Antidepressants
• Xylitol
• Acetaminophen
• Caffeine pills

Please note that these lists are meant to serve as a guide and are not all inclusive. There are many other plants or household items that can harm your pets. If you suspect that your pet has been exposed to any harmful items, please call your veterinarian or a poison control hotline immediately. We have listed two below.

• ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) (888) 426-4435
• Pet Poison Helpline (800) 213-6680

We hope each of you and your pets stay safe!

March is Poison Prevention Month, with spring fully under-way we wanted to help raise awareness for common plants and household items that are toxic to your pets. Dogs and cats love exploring and sometimes might get into things you wouldn’t expect. While most items in your home may be safe around your dog or cat,…