It's National Poison Prevention Week, a time to raise awareness about toxin safety in families and pets, and it's happening across the United States. The dangers pets face from seemingly benign household products are highlighted by ASPCA Animal Poison Control. The organization released a list of the top 10 substances that caused pets to be hospitalized. Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen, vitamins, and cold and flu medications top the list. Human foods, especially protein bars, onions, garlic, and xylitol sweeteners also pose a significant risk to pets, highlighting the need for caution. The rest of the top 10 includes human prescription drugs, chocolate, animal products, plants and fungi, and household foods. Conversations with veterinarians in Southwest Florida reveal that the danger is not always obvious, pointing out that even household plants and calming treats are potential sources of toxins. Dane Foxwell of Colonial Animal Hospital highlighted the frequency of such incidents, noting that she sees cases three to four times a week. “When owners and customers think of toxins, you think of skulls and crossbones,” Foxwell said. ” A common misconception about toxins is that many people don't realize that everyday items are potentially dangerous. Especially as spring and the rainy season approach, risks extend beyond the indoors of your home to outdoor hazards such as plants, poisonous frogs, and poisonous snakes. Toad and snake season is here. What do you do if you suspect your pet is poisoned? Take photos of the animal or toxic product. Call ASPCA Poison Control at (888)-426-4435. Don't hesitate to go to your local veterinary clinic. National Poison Prevention Week is also an occasion to remember. Keep items other than those specifically designed for pets out of reach of pets.
It's National Poison Prevention Week, a time to raise awareness about poison safety in families and pets across the United States.
The dangers pets face from seemingly harmless household products are highlighted by ASPCA Animal Poison Control. The organization released a list of the top 10 substances that caused pets to be hospitalized.
Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen, vitamins, and cold and flu medications are high on this list. Human foods, especially protein bars, onions, garlic, and xylitol sweeteners also pose a significant risk to pets, highlighting the need for caution.
The rest of the top 10 includes human prescription drugs, chocolate, animal products, plants and fungi, household products, rodenticides, pesticides, and recreational drugs.
Conversations with veterinarians in Southwest Florida reveal that the danger is not always obvious, pointing out that even household plants and calming treats are potential sources of toxins.
Dr. Dane Foxwell of Colonial Animal Hospital emphasized the frequency of such incidents, noting that he sees cases three to four times a week.
“When owners and customers think of toxins, they think of skulls and crossbones, right? If you think your pet has been exposed to a toxin, you'll want to contact Animal Poison Control,” Foxwell said. Many people are unaware of this, but it is impossible for veterinarians to know all about the toxic substances.”
A common misconception about toxins is that many people may not realize that everyday items are potentially dangerous.
Especially as spring and the rainy season approach, the risks extend beyond the interior of your home to outdoor hazards such as plants, poisonous toads, and poisonous snakes.
Toad and snake season is here. What do you do if you suspect your pet has ingested a poisonous substance?
- Obtain photos of animals or toxic products
- Call ASPCA Poison Control (888)-426-4435
- Please do not hesitate to go to the nearest veterinary hospital.
During National Poison Prevention Week, remember to keep all items that aren't meant for pets out of reach of your pet.
