Animal Poison Control…

Protecting Pets from Household Dangers

Every year, numerous pets become ill and some even die from ingesting hazardous materials. Many of these poisonous items are present in the average household and their consumption can be easily prevented. However, even with attentive owners, mischievous pets have a tendency to locate these potentially harmful articles.

Below are some common household items which can pose a threat to your pet:

Alcohol	Iron	Rodenticides
Avocados	Mistletoe	Sago Palms
Batteries	Mothballs	Snail and Slug Bait
Chocolate	Wild Mushrooms	Systemic Insecticides
Fruits	Chives, Garlic, Onions	Yeast Dough

If you’re concerned a companion may have been poisoned, take rapid – yet calm – steps to get your pet the treatment they need. Foremost, collect the offending item, the container with label, and anything your pet may have vomited up. Having these materials on hand can tremendously help your vet or toxicologist identify what has poisoned your companion.

If your pet is having difficultly breathing, seizures, losing consciousness or unconscious, immediately call ahead and then take them to your vet or nearest animal emergency center. Otherwise, you can call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) which offers consultation to pet owners who believe their animals have been poisoned. They charge $55 for the service, but this hotline could mean life or death to your family pet.