Every year we see pets suffering from the effects of toxins. Some have mild symptoms while others have more severe complications. And some will even die as a result.

When you think about it, the average home contains a large number of items that can be toxic to your pet, some more so than others. Take some time to go through all the areas of your house, especially the garage, and look for common toxins. You’d never let your children be around things like gasoline, paint thinner or kerosene. The same applies to your pet. Antifreeze has a sweet taste that dogs and cats are drawn to. This can be extremely toxic when ingested and life threatening. Antifreeze damages the kidneys resulting in rapid failure and death if a large enough quantity is ingested. And it doesn’t take much. Other things like rat poison can contain warfarin that prevents blood from clotting. Some pets may need a blood transfusion as treatment. And let’s not forget about the basics found in every home like laundry detergent, fabric softener, bleach, drain cleaners, bathroom and kitchen cleaning aids, etc. Don’t be fooled into thinking that if a product is “all natural” or “organic” that it can’t be toxic. Many of these products are derived from plants. There is a long list of plants that are toxic to pets. Check to see what plants are in your home. Cats are notorious for chewing on plants. Make sure if you have toxic plants they are either placed where they can’t be reached or pets are supervised when around them. It’s just like baby-proofing your house only you’re “pet–proofing” it.

Next, check out your medicine cabinet. Chances are you have an assortment of over the counter (OTC) drugs along with some prescription drugs. Just because something is safe for you to take doesn’t mean you can use it for your pet. Just 1 Tylenol can be deadly to your cat. Don’t leave your OTC cold and flu medicines on your bedside table if your pet sleeps in your room. It can be an open invitation to disaster. All prescription drugs should be safe guarded also from curious pets. NEVER give your pet OTC or prescription drugs unless specifically instructed to do so by your veterinarian.

Your kitchen can be a haven for toxins. Most people know chocolate can be toxic, but did you know that other everyday foods can be as well? Grapes, onions, macadamia nuts, raisins and coffee are just a few of the things you’ll find. Foods sweetened with xylitol (gum and candies) are dangerous also. Dogs that get into spoiled food or garbage can become sick as a result of the bacteria present in these foods. This can also lead to pancreatitis, which can range from mild to severe to life threatening.  

Look around your house today and think about the hazards that are present. Even if you don’t have young children, so that you are child proofing your home, you still need to pet-proof your house.

Your pets’ health and safety is our greatest concern.