Tips to help protect your pets during National Pet Poison Prevention Month

March is National Pet Poison Prevention Month. Protect your pet with these tips.

News 12 Staff

Mar 23, 2021, 8:35 AM

Updated 1,354 days ago

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March is National Pet Poison Prevention Month.
Watching your dog or cat get sick from toxic items or poison is a nightmare for any pet owner.
Symptoms of poisoning can be especially traumatic, ranging from seizures and vomiting to nosebleeds and diarrhea, according to Best Friends Animal Society.
Protect your pet from potential ingestion of any of the following:
Antifreeze
Bait for rodents
Batteries (which can contain corrosive fluid)
Car care products, such as cleaners or oils
Fertilizer
Gorilla Glue (or similar products)
Household cleaners
Ice-melting products
Medications – prescribed and over-the-counter
Nicotine products
Pesticides for insects
Pool or pond products
Food can be toxic to pets, so it’s always important to remember to never give, or allow your pets to have access to any of the following:
Alcoholic beverages
Substances containing caffeine, such as coffee
Chocolate
Fatty foods, especially drippings and grease from cooking
Chicken and turkey bones
Grapes and raisins
Onions and garlic
Macadamia nut
Salt and sugar
Yeast or bread dough
Flowers and plants can also be dangerous and even poisonous. The ASPCA has lists of plants that are toxic to dogs and cats.
Should your pet show any signs of poisoning, which include vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, blood in stool, paralysis, loss of appetite, bruising, nosebleeds, irregular heartbeat or inability to urinate, consult your veterinarian immediately.
Keep these numbers posted in an easy-to-find location in case of emergencies:
Your veterinarian's clinic phone number
24/7 emergency veterinary clinic (if different from your veterinarian)
ASPCA Poison Control Hotline: 1-888-426-4435