Each year, there are more than 100,000 cases of pet poisoning in the U.S. Many of these were caused by household substances that may seem perfectly harmless to you. But just because something is safe for people doesn’t mean it won’t hurt beloved pets. Here are the top 5 dog poisons you should know of.
1. Prescription Medications For People
Drugs that might be beneficial or even lifesaving for people can have the opposite effect in pets. And it doesn’t always take a large dose to do major damage.
Some of the most common and harmful medications that poison dogs include prescription anti-inflammatory and pain medications which can cause stomach and intestinal ulcers or kidney failure. Antidepressants which can cause vomiting and, in more serious instances, serotonin syndrome – a dangerous condition that raises temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure, and may cause seizures.
2. Insecticides
You may think you’re doing your dog a favor when you apply flea and tick products marketed to fight fleas and ticks, but thousands of animals are unintentionally poisoned by these products every year.
Problems can occur if dogs accidentally ingest these products or if small dogs receive excessive amounts. Talk to your vet about safe OTC products.
3. Over-the-counter Medications
This group contains acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen and naproxen (Advil, Alleve), as well as herbal and nutraceutical products (fish oil, joint supplements).
So the next time you consume any of these OTC medications, keep them safely stored away from your dog.
4. Pet Medication
Just as we can be sickened or killed by medications intended to help us, cases of pet poisoning by veterinary drugs are not uncommon.
Some of the more commonly reported problem medications include painkillers and de-wormers.
5. Household Products
Just as cleaners like bleach can poison people, they are also a leading cause of pet poisoning, resulting in stomach and respiratory tract problems.
Not surprisingly, chemicals contained in antifreeze, paint thinner, and chemicals for pools also can act as dog poison. The pet poisoning symptoms they may produce include stomach upset, depression, chemical burns, renal failure and death.