As pet owners, we cherish our furry friends and want to do everything we can to keep them safe and healthy. However, even with the best intentions, accidents can happen. One of the most common and potentially deadly accidents is pet poisoning. It can be difficult to know what substances are dangerous and how to prevent our pets from ingesting them. Fortunately, there are steps we can take to keep our beloved pets safe from poisoning.
In this article, we will talk about tips and strategies to prevent pet poisoning and keep our furry friends happy and healthy.
Know What Is Dangerous
The first step in preventing pet poisoning is knowing what dangerous substances are. Common household items such as cleaning products, pesticides, and certain foods can be toxic to pets. Other substances that are harmful to pets include medications, alcohol, and even some indoor and outdoor plants. It is important to research which substances are poisonous to pets and to keep them out of reach.
Store Harmful Substances Properly
One of the most important things you can do to prevent pet poisoning is to store harmful substances properly. This means keeping them out of reach of pets and storing them in a secure location. If you have a particularly curious or mischievous pet, consider using childproof locks on cabinets or keeping items in a high place your pet cannot reach.
Be Careful with Medications
Medications can be a major source of pet poisoning, so you have to be careful when administering them. Always follow dosage instructions carefully and keep medications out of reach of pets. When discarding medications, be sure to do so in a way that pets cannot get to them. This may mean disposing of them in a sealed container or taking them to a pharmacy or veterinary office for proper disposal.
Be Mindful of Food
Certain foods can be toxic to pets, so it is important to be mindful of what you are feeding them. Foods that are dangerous for pets include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and avocados. It is also important to avoid feeding pets table scraps, as many human foods can be harmful to them. When in doubt, check with your veterinarian to make sure that the food you are feeding your pet is safe.
Be Aware of Indoor and Outdoor Plants
Certain indoor and outdoor plants can be toxic to pets, so it is important to know what plants you have in your home and yard. Common poisonous plants include lilies, azaleas, and rhododendrons. If you are unsure whether a plant is toxic, check with your veterinarian or a reputable online resource before bringing it into your home or yard.
Be Prepared for Emergencies
Even with the best intentions, accidents can happen. That is why you have to be prepared for emergencies. Keep your veterinarian’s phone number and a local emergency veterinary hospital handy in case of an emergency. You may also want to keep a pet first aid kit on hand, which should include items such as gauze, bandages, and antiseptic.
Conclusion
Keeping pets safe from poisoning requires a combination of knowledge and preparation. By knowing what substances are dangerous, storing harmful substances properly, being careful with medications, being mindful of food, being aware of indoor and outdoor plants, and being prepared for emergencies, you can help keep your furry friends safe. Remember, prevention is the best medicine, so take steps now to protect your pets from poisoning.
Is your pet needing immediate medical attention? Call Birmingham Animal Hospital + Resort. Our emergency vet in Birmingham, AL, provides general veterinary medicine, specialty services & urgent care. The welfare of your pet will always be our top priority. If you think your pet has consumed anything bad, contact the ASPCA posion control helpline 844-492-9842 to know if your pet needs to visit the veterinarian immediately.
