Poisoning in Dogs
The most common way dogs become poisoned is as a result of an accident. It's no secret that dogs like to get into things they shouldn't, leaving loving dog owners panicked and wondering what to do.
In other cases, dogs have been exposed to toxic substances, or even just eaten something that isn't suitable for their metabolism.
How do you know if your dog has been poisoned?
Depending on the type of poison, the first signs and symptoms of poisoning in dogs vary tremendously but fall into a few categories:
- Swallowed Poison – Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, agitation, and heart issues.
- Inhaled Toxins – Inhaled toxins may cause breathing difficulties or loss of consciousness in dogs.
- Contact With Poisonous Substance – If your dog's skin comes into contact with a poisonous substance, typical symptoms include irritation and pain.
It's important to note that the symptoms of poisoning typically take a number of days to appear and, in some cases, could even take months.
Long-Term Symptoms of Poisoning in Dogs
Long-term symptoms of poisoning in dogs may include irregular heartbeat, kidney failure, liver damage, blood loss, and neurological issues like seizures.
If you suspect that your dog has ingested something toxic, it's crucial to seek emergency veterinary care right away. Even if your dog doesn't display any symptoms at first, it doesn't mean they're not at risk of being affected by the poisonous substance.
Everyday Household Items That Are Toxic to Dogs
Your home and garden are filled with items that may be toxic or poisonous to your dog. That's why it's important to know where your dog is at all times, and to keep potentially harmful substances beyond the reach of your curious dog's mouth.
Some of the most common household substances that are poisonous to dogs are:
- Chocolate
- Raisins
- Xylitol (low-calorie sweetener)
- Bleach
- Oven cleaner
- Laundry detergent
- Tylenol
- Alcohol
- Gasoline
- Tobacco
- Furniture polish
- Drain cleaners
- Antidepressants
- Snail, slug, or rodent poisons
- Fungi
- Yew trees
- Acorns
- Spring bulbs
When to Seek Emergency Veterinary Care
If you suspect your dog has been poisoned, the first and foremost thing to do is to remain calm and immediately call your local veterinary clinic. Ensure that you move your dog well away from the poisonous substance and ensure it is out of their reach, as they may tend to head back towards it while you are on the phone.
Do not try to administer any first aid to your dog, as different poisonous substances require different actions. While some cases may call for inducing vomiting, in other cases, this could make your dog even more sick. The best course of action is to get your dog to the vet as quickly as possible and allow your veterinary professionals to administer appropriate treatment.
If you know which poisonous substance your dog has consumed, bring any packaging or a sample of the poison safely to your vet's office. Providing this information will help your vet understand the situation better and determine the best course of treatment for your dog.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.