Poisonous Hazards
Dogs are curious animals and have a tendency to consume anything they come across. If you suspect that your dog has ingested a poisonous substance, contact your veterinarian immediately. The longer poison is in the dog's system, the more extensive the damage.
The following are some common poisonous hazards and their effects.
Insecticides and parasite medications. Flea and tick sprays, shampoos and collars. Worm medications must be used according to directions. Signs of overuse of these chemicals are trembling and weakness, drooling, vomiting, and loss of bowel control.
Rodent poisons.Most rat poisons thin the blood so it is unable to clot. Inducing vomiting before 30 minutes have lapsed will usually get rid of the poison. Poisons containing strychnine, such as those used for gophers, can cause rapid death.
Acids, alkalis, and petroleum products. Vomiting should not be induced if these products have been ingested. You can give antacids, approximately 2 teaspoons per 5 pounds of body weight, to temporarily counteract acids. For ingestion of alkali, use 1 part vinegar to 4 parts water and administer as you would antacids.
Antifreeze.This substance is sweet tasting which can draw animals to drink it. It is extremely toxic to dogs, even in small amounts. Call your veterinarian immediately. To prevent accidental ingestion, use an animal-safe antifreeze in your vehicles.
Toxic plants
Depending on the toxicity level of the plant, the effects of ingesting certain plants can range from upset stomach and vomiting to coma and death. To protect your pet, you should be aware of the toxicity level of all house plants as well as those in your yard. Be aware that the toxicity level of a particular plant may vary in its parts, such as stem, leaves, roots. It is also important to know that different breeds of pets may be affected differently. If you have trouble identifying a particular plant, contact a local nursery.
If you suspect your pet has ingested a toxic plant, call your veterinarian immediately. Some plants can cause significant, and sometimes irreversible, damage to internal organs in a short period of time.
Very toxic
Lily: Easter Lily, Tiger Lily, Japanese Show Lily, Day Lily, and others in the Liliaceae family. (The Peace Lily and the Calla Lily are in other plant families.)
Cats: Kidney failure and death. Only a small amount of an ingested leaf can lead to serious problems. Early warning signs include vomiting, dull appetite, and loss of appetite. Treatment should begin immediately.
Mistletoe
The American Mistletoe (often used at Christmas) produces severe irritation of the digestive tract, low heart rate, low body temperature, difficulty breathing, unsteadiness, excessive thirst, and sometimes seizure, coma, and death.
Hydrangea
This plant contains a cyanide-type toxin which is acts very fast. It leads to oxygen starvation with a very quick onset of symptoms including death.
Oleander
All parts of the plant have a high toxicity level. Ingestion leads to irritation of the digestive tract, vomiting, diarrhea, heart irregularities, depression, and often death. Even a small amount can lead to death. Fresh leaves are bitter; wilted and dead leaves are more palatable, but are still highly toxic.
Moderately toxic
Philodendron and Dieffenbachia (Dumbcane)
This plant contains oxalic acid salts that cause irritation in the mouth, excessive saliva production, and sometimes diarrhea when roots, leaves, or stem are ingested.
Rhododendron (Azalea)
Ingestion of leaves generally leads to digestive pain and irritation, abnormal heart function, tremors, and sometimes seizures, coma, and death.
Candelabra Cactus (Crown of Thorns)
The ingestion of leaves generally results in mild to moderate digestive upsets including excessive salivation, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Minimally to Moderately toxic
Poinsetta
The ingestion of leaves generally results in mild to moderate upset in the digestive tract including excessive salivation, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Holly
Ingestion results in upset in the digestive tract as well as nervous system depression. This plant contains some of the same toxic components as found in chocolate (caffeine.)
Minimally toxic
English Ivy
Leaves and berries may cause digestive system irritation, diarrhea, breathing difficulties, and rarely, coma or even death.
Other plants that may cause vomiting and diarrhea:
Castor BeanSoap BerryGround CherrySkunk CabbageDaffodilDelphiniumFoxgloveLarkspurIndian TobaccoIndian TurnipPokeweedBittersweet WoodyWisteria
Other plants that may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain:
AlmondApricotJerusalem CherryWild CherryBalsam PearChrysanthemumHyacinthJapanese PlumBird of Paradise BushHorse Chestnut (Buckeye)English HollyBlack LocustMock OrangePrivetRain Tree (Monkey Pod)Sago PalmTulipYew (American, English, Western Yew)
Other plants that may cause varied reactions:
Mescal beanMushroom (if toxic to humans)Sunburned potatoesRhubarbSpinachTomato VineButtercupDologetonPoison HemlockJasmineLoco WeedLupineMatrimony VineMay Apple
Toxic foods
Grapes and Raisins
There have been a few reports of kidney failure due to LARGE amounts being ingested. Until further studies are done, it is wise not to feed your pet large quantities of either.
Chocolate
Chocolate can be fatal to pets. It is best to keep chocolate away from pets.
Toxic household products
AcetaminophenAntifreeze and other car fluidsBleachBoric AcidCleaning fluidDeodorantsDeodorizersDetergentsDisinfectantsDrain cleanersFurniture polishGasolineHair coloringsWeed killersInsecticidesKeroseneMatchesMothballsNail polish Nail polish removerPaintPrescription medicineRat poisonRubbing alcoholShoe polishSleeping pillsSnail or slug baitTurpentineWindshield-wiper fluid