Protecting Puppies From Household Poisons
Human Medications
Prescription and over-the-counter medications are some of the most common items that dogs get into that cause accidental poisonings. Over-the-counter medications that cause the most pet poisonings include vitamins, ibuprofen, herbal supplements, and cold medicines. Human prescriptions, such as antidepressants and heart medications, are also extremely common.
Rodenticides and Insecticides
Many homeowners use rodenticides and insecticides in the home or around the yard to eliminate pests. These come in several forms such as sprays, baited traps, or topical products. Only use these products according to the directions on the label, and keep puppies away from treated areas for the recommended time to keep them safe.
Pet Medications
Many dogs don’t mind taking veterinarian-prescribed chewable medicine because it is flavored to be more appealing. This is great when you’re trying to administer medications as prescribed but can be fatal if a puppy locates the bottle and decides to ingest everything in it.
- Chocolate – Chocolate is one of the most dangerous foods that a puppy can consume, as it contains caffeine and theobromine – both of which stimulate a dog’s nervous system. The amount and type of chocolate eaten are major factors in how sick a dog may become. If a puppy is suspected of having eaten chocolate, they should be taken to the veterinarian right away.
- Xylitol – Xylitol can be found in sugar-free gum, peanut butter, candy, and even some baked goods. When a dog consumes xylitol, the dog’s pancreas releases a massive amount of insulin, which results in a decrease in the level of blood sugar in the body, also known as hypoglycemia.
Household Products
Household products used for cleaning can contain ingredients that are not safe for dogs. It’s best to try to use non-toxic products, and always use cleaning supplies per the label’s instructions. Dishwashing detergent, fabric softener, bleach, window cleaner, and bathroom cleaners should all be stored in locked cabinets or up high out of reach of pets.
Leave A Comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.