Dog Poison Prevention: Rodenticides

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If you have a rat or mouse problem in your home, you may be tempted to use baits to control them. Please try alternative methods, as these are directly responsible for the deaths of many animals every year. If you decide you must use baits, please keep this information in mind: There are two types [...]

Pet Poison Hotline Information

Sick Dog

Let’s face it.  Our homes are filled with items that can poison our dogs.  Food, medicines, cleaners, and various chemicals are likely lurking in cabinets, on shelves and perhaps even counters, all posing a very real danger to your dog.  Many items are common household products, such as laundry detergents, cleaners and disinfectants.  Even some [...]

Foods dogs should avoid

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Below is a list of foods you should avoid giving to your dog.  Please note this is a reference list based on articles from DVMs and a personal conversation with my own DVM.  This list is not intended to be all-inclusive.  Please consult your DVM if you have any questions regarding a food on or [...]

Dog Poison Prevention: Alcohol

Alcohol and dogs do not mix

For those who drink,  the effects of alcohol on the body is well-known. However, the effects on our dogs can be more significant, due to their lower body weight. Dog alcohol poisoning occurs if a dog drinks between 5 and 8 ml of alcohol per kilo bodyweight. That’s not ml of whiskey or wine, it’s [...]

Dog Poison Prevention: Tick Killer Medicines

Itchy Puppy

Amitraz is an insecticide that is incorporated in pour-on formulations to control ticks, mites and lice in many species. There are a number of brand names for this product.  (You can do an Internet search for more information.)  Amitraz is very effective, but it is also very toxic. Poisoning can occur when a dog chews [...]

Dogs Poison Prevention: Lead

Dr Dog

Dogs of any age can be affected by lead poisoning; however it’s more common in puppies and adolescents. These dogs are more likely to chew things they find around the house, and they are usually poisoned by eating lead containing items. Lead sinkers from the fishing tackle box are a regular cause of lead poisoning, [...]

Dog Poison Prevention: Chocolate

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Most people know not to give their dog chocolate, but not many people are aware of just how dangerous chocolate is, nor what to look for if their dog is poisoned. Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, both of which contribute to poisoning. There is also theobromine in some garden mulches made from cocoa-bean hulls; some [...]

Dog Poison Prevention: Carbon Monoxide

Carbon Monoxide kills

Many people make a comfortable bed for their dog in the garage, where it’s warm and dry, and safe. However, if at any time you leave your car running with your dog in the garage and the door closed, you put your dog at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. A more likely cause of carbon [...]

Dog Poison Prevention: Antifreeze

Danger

Antifreeze is one of the most common poisons in dogs because it tastes very sweet and dogs enjoy the taste. It contains ethylene glycol which in itself isn’t too poisonous, but in the body it is changed to a very toxic chemical which destroys the kidneys. A dose of around 5ml per kilo in dogs [...]

Dog Poison Prevention: Acetaminophen

OTC medicines can be deadly to your dog

Watch for toxic substances in your home. Acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol in some countries, is a common over the counter (OTC) medication which is very effective in people to relieve pain and fever. However, it is extremely dangerous for your dog. Most dogs become poisoned with acetaminophen when he is unwell, and an owner [...]