How to tell if a dog is poisoned?
Vomiting is usually not a worrying symptom in dogs. They actually do it to feel better: they forcefully eject that food or liquid that is bothering them and move on. However, if vomiting persists over time, it could be an indicator of something else.
Poisoning items for dogs
Not only human foods can be toxic to dogs: plants, toxins, chemicals, and meds can also create a poisoning effect on our pups.
Foods: Garlic, onion, raisins, grapes, cherry pits, chocolate, mushrooms, nuts, or alcoholic beverages. You can learn more about it on our blog: Toxic foods for dogs.
Plants: Azalea, English Ivy, Rhubarb, Dieffenbachia, Aloe, Snake plant, Ficus, Sago palm, Lilly of the valley, among others.
Meds: Any drug meant for human consumption needs to be far from your dog’s reach. NSAIDs, Acetaminophen, Adderall, Xanax, Estrogen, and Progesterone from birth control, are all toxic to pups.
Chemicals: Lawn fertilizers, rat poison, pesticides, fabric softener, bleach, soap, paints, and solvents are super poisonous to dogs.
Dog poisoning symptoms
If you see your dog consuming a poisoning item, you need to act immediately. However, in case your dog gets poisoned without you noticing it, you need to be familiar with the symptoms to catch it at an early stage. Dog poisoning symptoms include:
- Gastrointestinal distress: vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, excessive drooling.
- Lethargy: increased sleep, weakness, and tremors.
- Change in behavior: Increased or decreased urination, lack of appetite,
- Internal bleeding: pale gums, increased heart rate, and vomiting blood.
What can I do if my dog is poisoned?
If your dog gets poisoned, the most important thing to do is act fast.
Notify your vet of the source of poisoning and follow his/her recommendations. If needed, get a sample of the poison to take with you to the vet. Depending on the source of poison, your vet can ask you to induce vomit through saltwater. If the poison is in your dog’s skin, bathe him asap and rinse thoroughly. And last but not least, keep your dog calm, but alert. Don’t let him fall asleep.
The ASPCA (American Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) has an animal poison center, and it is open 24/7 for any pet-related emergency. Phone: 1-888-426-4435. Keep the number handy in case of an emergency.
