Tips and Tricks for Keeping Your Pet Safe from Poisoning

Knowing how to keep your pet safe from poisoning can save you a huge amount of heartache and stress. Here are tips and tricks to protect your pet from accidental poisoning. Be observant. If your pet changes behavior, contact us or the poison control hotline as soon as possible.

Keep Prescription and Over-the-counter Medications in Secure Places

You should keep all types of medications, and supplements, away from your pet’s reach. These substances can cause dangerous health issues. Studies show that animals break down medications differently, which is why ingesting some medications can be fatal. If you have guests, remind them to do the same.

Be Mindful of What You Do in the Kitchen

Many ingredients in the kitchen can be toxic to pets. One good example is xylitol, a sugar substitute often found in peanut butter, chewing gums and candies. This ingredient can cause a harmful drop in blood glucose if your pet ingests even a small amount. Large quantities of xylitol can lead to liver failure. If you have a pet, placing a barrier in the doorway to the kitchen can prevent your pet from getting into potentially toxic ingredients. Keep the following human foods out of your pet’s reach:
 

• Onions

• Raisins

• Grapes

• Coffee

• Macadamia nuts

• Alcohol

Make Informed Decisions When Picking Plants

It is ideal to select your plants with care; you should avoid bringing toxic plants into your home or yard. If you already have toxic plants on your property, you must look for pet-safe alternatives. Pets tend to explore with their mouths. Smelling and eating these plants help satisfy their curiosity. Some plants may cause stomach upset, while others may have fatal effects.

Supervise Outdoor Playtime

Many outdoor hazards can be toxic to your pet. Rodent, ant, snail, and slug baits can be lurking around your property. Your pet may find the smell attractive enough to eat these toxic substances. Fertilizers can be harmful as well. Keep an eye on your pet during playtime outdoors. Secure your trash bins and fence off your pond or pool as well.

Be Prepared for Emergencies

Knowing how to protect your pet from different poisons can keep them safe and healthy. At the Animal Emergency Center of Killeen, we share valuable preventive pet care information. This allows pet parents to become more responsible in providing high-quality care to their pets. Visit our center in Killeen, Texas, for a walk-in consultation. Please call 254-628-5017 to learn more about keeping your pets safe from poisoning.