Common Pet Poisons

Pet poisoning is serious and almost entirely preventable. With diligence, pet owners can keep their companion animals safe. Various household substances and foods found in a typical house can be poisonous to pets include:

• chocolate

• grapes/raisins

• xylitol (artificial sweetener)

• alcoholic beverages

• rodenticide

• acetaminophen/ibuprofen

• antifreeze

• macadamia nuts

• onions

• houseplants

• mushrooms

• cleaning products

• avocado

• flower bouquets

Anyone who suspects a dog has ingested something toxic can contact their veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888426-4435 immediately.

In the event that a vet or poison control organization suggests inducing vomiting, pet owners can follow this formula for making an emetic to make dogs vomit. Hydrogen peroxide is an irritant to a dog’s intestinal tract and typically works within 10 to 15 minutes of being ingested. The proper dosage, according to the American Kennel Club, is one teaspoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide per five pounds of the dog’s body weight by mouth, with a maximum dose of 3 tablespoons for dogs who weigh more than 45 pounds. Only induce vomiting under the guidance of an expert and within two hours of the dog consuming the substance. Use a syringe to squirt the solution between the dog’s back teeth, being careful not to let the pet inhale the substance.

Hydrogen peroxide is not typically effective at inducing vomiting in cats, and poisoning may require further consultation with a professional health care provider. (MC)