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A blog about dog behavior and training...and all other things dog!

Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Everyday Household Products can be Hazardous To Our Pets


The potential for exposure to toxic substances and the danger poisons pose to our pet animals is of serious concern to many pet owners.  But oftentimes people simply don't recognize that these toxic substances may be lurking in and around their homes in the form of common household cleaners and everyday products.  
 
The ASPCA reports that in the year 2009, their Animal Poison Control Center in Ubania, IL, handled more than 140,000 cases of pets exposed to toxic substances.  Many of these cases included exposure to everyday household products.

The following is their list of top ten pet poisons to effect pet animals in 2009:
  1. Human Medications
  2. Insecticides
  3. People Food
  4. Plants
  5. Veterinary Medicine
  6. Rodenticides
  7. Household Cleaners
  8. Heavy Metals
  9. Garden Products
  10. Chemical Hazards
The symptoms of poisoning span the spectrum from mild dietary upset to serious illness, neurological problems and even death.  Young animals with their natural curiosity and tendency to chew are the most vulnerable, but pets of any age can be seriously effected by exposure to toxic substances.  The best way to safeguard your pet is to carefully supervise them and to keep toxic substances well out of reach.  If your dog or cat does come in contact with toxic substances, immediate medical attention and treatment is crucial, so waste no time seeking help for your pet.

I will cover each of these hazards in more detail in upcoming posts, but if you suspect that your pet has been exposed to a toxic substance, please contact your veterinarian or the Animal Poison Control Center. 
The APCC has a 24hr hotline number: (888) 426-4435
Or for more details, visit the ASPCA's website.