What is bad for dogs that are found around the house? Things toxic to dogs may be perfectly harmless to people, although not always. Below, you'll find information on things to keep well out of your dog or puppy's reach.
What substances are poisonous to dogs?
Most of the poisoning cases our San Jose vets see are the result of pets getting into substances around the house that simply haven't been stored safely, or that pet parents didn't know are bad for dogs. Certain foods, medications and substances commonly found around our homes, may seem harmless but can be lethal if ingested by our four-legged friends.
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
It is essential to be vigilant when it comes to keeping medications out of your dog's reach. Over-the-counter medications including painkillers and anti inflammatory medications as well as prescription medications can be highly poisonous when ingested by dogs. Medications that are toxic to 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
Our four-legged friends have different metabolisms to us, which means that many foods that are perfectly safe and enjoyable for us can be dangerous, or even fatal, for dogs. If your dog consumes any of the following foods call your veterinarian right away for help:
Xylitol (found in sugar-free gum)
Chocolate
Grapes
Raisins
Onions
Garlic
Alcohol
Veterinary Products
Medications and prevention products play a key role in keeping your pet healthy, but the mistaken consumption or over consumption of these products can be fatal for our canine companions. Ensure that these items are kept out of your dog's reach and only used as directed by your veterinarian. Veterinary products that can be poisonous if consumed or over-consumed include:
Painkillers
Dewormers
Flea & Tick Treatments
Heartworm Prevention Medications
Household Products
There are a vast number of chemicals stored in most people's homes. While these chemicals perform a wide variety of useful tasks most are extremely dangerous to the health of our pets. The consumption of these substances can quickly be fatal for our four-legged friends. Safely store all household chemicals but especially:
Antifreeze
Paint Thinner
Household Cleaners
Swimming Pool Chemicals
Lawn & Garden Chemicals
Toilet Cleaners
Rodenticides & Insecticides
Rat poison and insecticides come in a variety of forms and can be as dangerous for your dog as the creatures they are intended for. If you are dealing with rodents invading your home, be sure your pet can't get into the substances you put down to deal with the problem, and store these products up high or in an area out of your pup's reach. Some common chemicals that fall into this category include:
Warfarin & Other Anticoagulant Rodenticides
Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) Rodenticides
Vengeance & Bromethalin Rodenticides
Organophosphates and Carbamates
Pyrethroids
Metaldehyde
Plants
The list of common household and garden plants that are toxic to our four-legged friends is extensive, and we couldn't possibly list them all. Nonetheless, a few that you should avoid having in your home or garden include:
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
Diarrhea
Kidney failure
Excessive bruising or bleeding
Nosebleeds
Unsteady on feet
Abnormal heartbeat
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. Please make an appointment with your vet for an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition.
Do you think that your dog or puppy has consumed something poisonous? Contact our San Jose vets right away. After hours, contact an emergency animal hospital near you.
