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Pet Article
PETS AND POISONS
There are several hazards to pets, some can prove to be potentially fatal. As a pet owner
knowing what these hazards are and taking simple precautions will keep your pet health.
ANTIFREEZE: Most radiator antifreeze coolant contains ethylene glycol and is highly toxic.
It has a sweet taste and is readily consumed by children and animals. Five teaspoons can kill
a 10 pound dog, less will kill a cat. It is very fast acting and results in kidney failure and
death in around 4 to 8 hours. Some newer products are now available that contain propylene
glycol, these are generally considered safer. New antifreeze should always be stored in its
original container, out of reach of pets and children. You should also keep the empty
container or a record of the product used so that if your car should leak and your dog or cat
happens to find it before you, you can tell your veterinarian what was consumed. Disposal of
old antifreeze in a sealed container is a must, you should never hose it down in the driveway.
Always have plenty of fresh water available for your dog or cat, especially if you think your
dog or cat has consumed antifreeze. Always consult with your veterinarian immediately.
RODENTICIDES: Rodenticides that are used to kill any rats hoping to winter in your house, will
also kill your pet. They cause severe bleeding, kidney failure, and death. There are no safe
rodenticides. Whether out of hunger, boredom, or curiosity, pets will consume these
products. If rodenticides are used in your home, put them in places inaccessible to pets and
children. Keep a record of the product used and in case of accidental poisoning, contact
your veterinarian immediately.
CHOCOLATE: Chocolate is a favorite people treat at any time of year, but it is toxic to dogs,
cats, and birds. The initial signs of chocolate poisoning are those of stomach upset, vomiting
and diarrhea. If sufficient chocolate is consumed, an animal will become restless and
uncoordinated and will suffer heart failure and/or respiratory failure. As little as one ounce
of baking chocolate or eight ounces of milk chocolate can kill a 10 pound dog. Like other
poisonings, chocolate poisoning requires emergency medical treatment.
TABLE TREATS: Holiday meals can also cause medical emergencies for pets. Chicken
and turkey bones can get stuck or can pierce holes in any portion of the digestive tract.
Rich foods can cause sudden pancreatitis or bloat. Keep holiday meals, leftovers, and table
scraps out of reach of your pet. If your pet insists on participating in the feast, cooked
vegetables (without the butter and salt) or commercial dog treats are safe if given in small
amounts.
COLD WEATHER: Indoor pets not acclimated to winter temperatures should not be left outside
in cold weather for long periods. Outdoor pets can withstand fairly cold temperatures if
they have shelter from wind and rain and have bedding to insulate them from the cold
ground. Avoid electrical heating devices that could electrocute your pet if they got wet or
were chewed. Outdoor pets need extra food in cold weather to generate body heat, and
they need access to water that is not frozen. Keep your pet's feet clean and dry. Ice or salt
will cause severe irritation when caught between your pet's toes. Frostbite is a winter
hazard to pets as well as people. Frostbitten areas are fragile and should be wrapped
snugly for protection from abrasion and from sudden temperature change. Severe frostbite
requires emergency treatment.
HOLIDAY DECORATIONS: Keep novel, small items our of reach of your cat or dog, especially
puppies and kittens as they tend to eat anything. Non food items that become lodged in your
pets digestive tract is yet another emergency condition.
For more information on the care of pets, contact your local veterinarian.
Mark Woodcock
1 Flea Control
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