Keeping your furry friend healthy is your top priority. Part of that responsibility is keeping toxic substances well out of your dog's reach. To help you keep your pup safe and healthy our Tucson vets share a list of some common household items that are hazardous to your dog's health.
What is bad and/or poisonous to dogs?
Our Tucson vets see most of the poisoning cases as a result of pets accessing substances around the house that people haven't stored safely or that pet parents are unaware are harmful to dogs. Our four-legged friends can ingest certain foods, medications, and substances commonly found around our homes that may seem harmless but can be lethal.
To help you keep your beloved pet safe and healthy, here are just a few of the most common household items poisonous to dogs:
Medications
Keeping medications out of your dog's reach is essential, and you should be vigilant about it. Dogs can experience high levels of toxicity when they ingest over-the-counter medications, such as painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications, as well as prescription medications. Toxic medications for dogs include (but are not limited to):
Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Ibuprofen (Advil)
Aspirin
Naproxen (Aleve)
Indomethacin & Other NSAIDs
NSAIDs
Xanax, Ambien, Valium & Other Sleeping Pills
ACE Inhibitors & Other Blood Pressure Meds
ADHD Medications
Beta Blockers
Adderall
Many Herbal & Nutraceutical Products
People Food
Dogs have different metabolisms than us, which means that many foods that are perfectly safe and enjoyable for us can be dangerous, or even fatal, for them. Call your veterinarian right away for help if your dog consumes any of the following foods.
Xylitol (found in sugar-free gum)
Chocolate
Grapes
Raisins
Onions
Garlic
Alcohol
Veterinary Products
Keeping your pet healthy relies on the key role that medications and prevention products play, but our canine companions can face fatal consequences if they mistakenly consume or over consume these products. You should ensure that you keep these items out of your dog's reach and only use them as directed by your veterinarian. Consuming or over-consuming veterinary products can be poisonous.
Painkillers
Dewormers
Flea & Tick Treatments
Heartworm Prevention Medications
Household Products
Most people store a vast number of chemicals in their homes. While these chemicals perform a wide variety of useful tasks, they pose an extreme danger to the health of our pets. Our four-legged friends can quickly die from consuming these substances. Store all household chemicals safely, but especially:
Antifreeze
Paint Thinner
Household Cleaners
Swimming Pool Chemicals
Lawn & Garden Chemicals
Toilet Cleaners
Rodenticides & Insecticides
Rat poison and insecticides can come in a variety of forms and can be as dangerous for your dog as the creatures they are intended for. Ensure that your pet cannot access the substances you use to address the issue if you are dealing with rodents or other critters invading your home. Store these products in a high location or an area out of your pup's reach. Some common chemicals in this category include:
Warfarin & Other Anticoagulant Rodenticides
Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) Rodenticides
Vengeance & Bromethalin Rodenticides
Organophosphates and Carbamates
Pyrethroids
Metaldehyde
Plants
The extensive list of common household and garden plants that are toxic to our four-legged friends cannot be listed in its entirety. Nonetheless, you should avoid having a few in your home or garden.
Azaleas
Rhododendrons
Tulips
Daffodils
Sago palms
Oleander
Poinsettia
Philodendron
Peace lily
What should I do if my dog has been poisoned?
Signs & Symptoms of Poisoning in Dogs
The following symptoms may indicate that your dog has been poisoned:
Agitation
Tremors
Convulsions
Nausea and/or vomiting
Seizures
Heart problems
Diarrhoea
Kidney failure
Excessive bruising or bleeding
Nosebleeds
Unsteady on feet
Abnormal heart beat
Drooling
Oral irritation
Pale gums
Inability to urinate
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.
Not all things toxic to dogs are listed in this post. If your dog has ingested something that you aren't sure about, contact our Tucson vets right away, or reach out to your nearest animal emergency hospital.
