When we get our new pets, bring them to our loving home and make them members of the family, we as responsible pet owners want and vow to keep them safe and happy. They are great food to eat, their own place to sleep, their own toys . . . and playmates and all that they need to be the happiest pet ever. What about the dangers lurking around that can hinder their health and life?
Some of the common toxins and poisons to cats are Lilies, Dog topical flea and tick medications, cleaners, mouse and rat poison, paints and varnishes, certain medications like Rimadyl & more, glow sticks and glow jewelry, amphetamines, acetaminophen, and Ibuprofen.
For Dogs the dangers lie in chocolate, insect baits, mouse and rat poison, fertilizers, ingredients in sugar free gums and candies, ibuprofen, acetaminophen, silica gel packs, amphetamines and cleaners.
These lists may not be all inclusive but it gives you an idea of some of the things to keep out of reach. When we have children and they start to crawl and walk, we have to childproof the home for their safety. You love your pets so pet proofing your home is just a little effort to provide a safe haven.
Some ideas to pet proof your home can include such things as keeping trash bins covered and out of reach, fence off compost bins, install baby locks on cabinets that contain hazards to your pet, store medications in higher locked cabinets, close toilets (especially if you use those bowl cleaners/deodorizers), and keep xylitol gum and other sugar free items out of reach. Above all, keep this website in a predominant area for emergencies – petpoisonhelpline.com.
Despite all our greatest efforts, sometimes our dearest 4-legged friend finds something we missed. Besides programming the poison hotline in your phone, you should also have your Vets’ number as well. In the meantime, when it comes to poison, time is of the essence. Try to have some first aid items at home such as peroxide (non-expired), dish soap, rubber gloves, triple antibiotic ointments, Vitamin E oil, Benadryl, saline solution, Gatorade, and corn syrup.
Before administering any type of home remedy, be sure to call your Vet, Emergency Vet or the Poison Hot Line for guidance. Most people in an emergency want to give their pets such things as milk, peanut butter, vegetable oil or salt, none of which should be given to animal in distress. It is essential as a pet owner that you understand the risks and dangers of your pets’ health and hazards as well. Lets’ love our pets and keep them safe.
