Common household items that can be dangerous

Human Foods, Human Medications, Modern threats (such as THC), Rodent and Snail/Slug Bait, Houseplants and Flowers, Yard and Garden Supplies, and Cleaning products –especially timely with spring cleaning season around the corner

Signs and symptoms to be aware that your dog or cat may have ingested something they shouldn’t have

Gastrointestinal Upset, Neurologic Changes, Bleeding, Bruising, or Pallor, Behavioral Changes, Increased Urination or Inability to Urinate

How to “poison-proof your home

Secure cabinets and trash cans, ensure toxic items are put up out of reach or safely contained to a place pets cannot access.

Crate your pet or contain them in a safe space when unsupervised.

Keep your pet out of spaces where toxin exposure is likely to occur (for example, when the messy toddler is eating in the kitchen).

Replace toxic products with pet-safe alternatives whenever possible, or avoid them entirely.

Train your pet to “drop it” to prevent them from ingesting something poisonous when you’re too far away to physically remove
the item.

What to do if you think your pet has been poisoned

Contact your veterinarian or the nearest emergency clinic right away in order to determine whether your pet needs to be seen.

Try to note how much was ingested and any symptoms that have been observed to help your veterinarian decide on appropriate treatment.

Bring any packaging and the remaining portion of the toxin. If vomiting or diarrhea have occurred, bring a sample along to your pet’s appointment.

In cases where you’re not sure if the item is toxic, call your veterinarian, the ASPCA Poison Control Center or the Pet Poison Helpline for guidance. These services come with a consultation fee.

Why having pet insurance in place is extremely beneficial if your dog or cat is poisoned

While it’s not fun to think about, most pets face an unexpected accident or illness at some point during their life – such as ingesting a toxin. If an accident like this happens, the cost of care can get expensive. Having pet insurance means you can get reimbursed for a portion of your pet’s eligible vet bills, so it’s easier to afford the care they need to recover.