In general, home is a place of comfort and safety for us and our dogs. But there are still dangers. Cats & Dogs Animal Hospital, a veterinarian in Long Beach, reminds you that many common household items are toxic to our best friend. Practice good dog care and keep these products out of their way.
Over-the-Counter Medications
According to WebMD, OTC meds are the number one cause of dog poisoning in the US. The biggest villains are acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen, and naproxen.
Prescription Medications
Meds that are vital for people can be disastrous for their pets. Keep all of these out of the reach of your dog, especially anti-inflammatories, pain medications, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications.
Human Food
Our digestive systems are different from dogs, and foods that are safe and delicious for us can be life-threatening for them. Examples are avocados, grapes and raisins, Macadamia nuts and the artificial sweetener Xylitol. And of course there’s chocolate, the darker the more dangerous. A few ounces can be deadly. Caffeinated beverages are risky for dogs as well.
Household Products
Many cleaning products are dangerous for dogs as well as people. These include bleach, many cleaners, antifreeze and paint thinner. If the label warns you about it, it’s a warning for your dog too. Other hazards are lawn and garden products and insecticides.
Plants
Big no-nos include rhododendrons, azaleas, tulips, and daffodils. They are pretty, but don’t let your eat them.
What if you suspect your dog has ingested poison?
During our business hours, contact us for pet poison control issues. Call before you come in so we can give you instructions and be ready for you. Outside of our hours, we recommend Long Beach Animal Emergency.
The Veterinarian for All Your Pet Care Needs
Don’t wait for an emergency to have a veterinary team at the ready for your beloved animal. Cats & Dogs Animal Hospital in Long Beach is a full-service small animal facility that cares for your pets like family. Call 562 439-4228 for an appointment.
