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Common Household Hazards for Dogs & Puppies

As a responsible pet owner, you want to ensure the well-being of your furry friend. One way to achieve this is by taking precautionary measures to keep potentially harmful substances out of your dog's reach. Our Clarksville vets have compiled a list of common household items that could pose a threat to your dog's health. This list will help you identify and avoid hazardous substances, ensuring your dog's safety and good health.

What substances are poisonous to dogs?

Many pets get poisoned because they consume substances around the house that are not stored safely, or that their owners are unaware of their toxicity. Some household items may seem harmless but can prove deadly when ingested by our furry companions.

Our vets at Clarksville have identified certain foods, medications, and substances that can poison dogs. To ensure your pet's safety and well-being, here are some of the most common hazardous items found in households:

Medications

It is crucial to be cautious and attentive when it comes to keeping medications away from your dog's reach. Over-the-counter medications, including painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications, as well as prescription medications, can be highly toxic when ingested by dogs.

Some of the medications that are poisonous 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

Dogs and humans have different metabolisms, which means that certain foods that are safe for humans can be harmful or even fatal for dogs. If your dog happens to consume any of the following foods, it is crucial to contact your veterinarian immediately for help:

  • Xylitol (found in sugar-free gum)
  • Chocolate
  • Grapes
  • Raisins 
  • Onions
  • Garlic
  • Alcohol 

Veterinary Products

It is important to have medications and prevention products to maintain the health of our pets. However, it is equally crucial to note that our furry friends' accidental consumption or over-consumption of these products may have fatal consequences. To prevent such incidents, it is important to keep these items out of your dog's reach and use them only as directed by your veterinarian. Remember that some veterinary products can be poisonous if ingested or over-consumed.

  • Painkillers
  • Dewormers
  • Flea & Tick Treatments
  • Heartworm Prevention Medications

Household Products

It is common for people to store a large number of chemicals in their homes. While these chemicals can serve many purposes, most of them pose a significant risk to the health of our pets. Ingesting these substances can be fatal for our four-legged companions. Therefore, it is crucial to store all household chemicals safely, but taking extra precautions with these substances is especially important.

  • Antifreeze
  • Paint Thinner
  • Household Cleaners
  • Swimming Pool Chemicals
  • Lawn & Garden Chemicals
  • Toilet Cleaners

Rodenticides & Insecticides

It is essential to remember that rat poison and insecticides can be just as harmful to your dog as the pests they are meant to eliminate. When using these products to deal with a pest invasion at home, make sure that your pet cannot access them. Store these chemicals in an area that is out of your dog's reach or up high.

Some commonly used dangerous chemicals in this category include:

  • Warfarin & Other Anticoagulant Rodenticides
  • Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) Rodenticides
  • Vengeance & Bromethalin Rodenticides
  • Organophosphates and Carbamates
  • Pyrethroids
  • Metaldehyde

Plants

The list of plants toxic to pets is extensive—a few to avoid: common household and garden plants.

  • Azaleas
  • Rhododendrons
  • Tulips
  • Daffodils
  • Sago palms 
  • Oleander
  • Poinsettia
  • Philodendron
  • Peace lily 

What should I do if my dog has been poisoned?

Stay calm and ensure the poison's source is out of your dog's reach. Then, get your dog to the vet as soon as possible.

Call Us:  (931) 368-8050

Signs & Symptoms of Poisoning in Dogs

The following symptoms may indicate that your dog has been poisoned:

  • Agitation
  • Tremors
  • Convulsions
  • Nausea and 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. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.

Not all substances toxic to dogs are included in this post. If your dog has ingested something you're unsure of, contact our Clarksville veterinarians immediately, or go to your nearest animal emergency hospital.

New Patients Welcome

Sango Veterinary Hospital is accepting new patients! Our experienced vets are passionate about the health of Clarksville companion animals. Get in touch today to book your pet's first appointment.

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