Did you know that March is National Poison Awareness Month? We have some VERY special guests at the shelter who are excited to teach you about pet poison prevention and share their tips and tricks. Oh—and if you’re REALLY impressed, many of them are looking for their FURever homes!
Before We Begin, Zay Has An Announcement
Zay is looking for a FURever home
If you know or suspect your pet has ingested something toxic but is not showing any signs, you should call the Pet Poison Helpline (800-213-6680), your local poison hotline, and your veterinarian.
If your pet is displaying symptoms, take them to the ER or vet immediately.
Have any other questions or concerns about your pet’s health? Always consult a vet for advice. If you don’t have a vet you normally see, we do offer a Humane Society of Macomb Animal Clinic!
Toxic Cleaning Items
Lola is looking for a FURever home
Lola would LOVE to spend time with you, but she wants to point out these toxic kitchen items first! A clean kitchen is important, but cleaning products containing bleach, chlorine, glycol ether, ammonia, and formaldehyde should be kept far away from your pet.
When cleaning with these products, we recommend securing your pet in a different area of your home until the area is ventilated and the chemicals have dried. If possible, it might be better to avoid these ingredients and replace them with pet-safe alternatives.
Fast Fact: Did you know that pets can absorb chemicals through their paws when surfaces are still wet?
Toxic Foods
Kapu was adopted!
We had to break the news to Kapu that some foods can be toxic to adorable pets like him. Humans might love seasoning dishes with garlic and onion but keep them away from your dogs and cats!
Xylitol, grapes, raisins, and alcohol are also toxic to pets. In the interest of keeping this blog a manageable length, we recommend checking out this resource that covers loads more dangerous foods.
Adding another item to your pet poison prevention toolkit can’t hurt!
Toxic Medications
Maxx is looking for a FURever home
Maxx is a big, strong Shepherd and wants to make sure you know that he doesn’t need to take “people medications,” and the same goes for other cats and dogs. Medicines prescribed for humans, including over-the-counter drugs such as Tylenol, Aleve, Advil, and Motrin are poisonous to our FURever friends.
Always keep your medicine bottles out of reach of pets and quickly pick up any dropped pills. You never know when an inquisitive friend will investigate!
Toxic Plants
Midnight was adopted!
Have you ever brought a new plant friend home, only to realize that your pet seems extremely interested in it? We’ve been there!
Some common household plants like lilies, tulip bulbs, rhododendrons, and sago palms are toxic to your pets. Click here for a more extensive list of toxic and non-toxic plants.
P.S. keep in mind that many fertilizers could also contain dangerous chemicals, so don’t forget to research that before feeding your plant babies!
Poisoning Symptoms in Dogs
Vegas is looking for a FURever home
- Nosebleeds
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Loss of Appetite
- Blood in the Stool
- Inability to Urinate
- Bruising
- Irregular Heartbeat
- Seizures
Poisoning Symptoms in Cats
Ella is looking for a FURever home
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Loss of Appetite
- Pale/Yellow Gums
- Diarrhea
- Excessive Thirst
- Excessive Urination
- Lethargy
- Muscle Tremors
- Seizures
- Coma
We hope our guests’ information helped prepare you to take action in your pet poison prevention journey! Again, if you suspect that your pet has ingested something toxic—or have any other concerns—please contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Looking for a FURever friend to add to your family? Great news! We have adoptable rescues who cannot wait to meet you.