Top 5 Pet Poisons
March is Pet Poison Prevention Month. Like children, we must keep certain items out of reach of our pets in order to keep them safe. Some items you may be aware of their toxicity to pets and some may be a surprise. Continue below to find out if you know the top five pet toxins.
HUMAN FOODS: Many foods that are perfectly safe for humans can be harmful to our pets. These include:
- Chocolate
- Grapes and raisins
- Garlic and onion
- Yeast dough
- Any products containing the artificial sweetener, xylitol. (Found in a variety of foods from gum to toothpaste, including some brand of peanut butter)
- Pork products (Double check your treats and rawhide products as pork is a popular flavor used in pet products)
- Mushrooms
- Caffeinated items
- Nuts
HUMAN MEDICATIONS: There are several over the counter drugs and prescriptions that can do more harm than good. Please contact your veterinarian before giving any type of medication to your pet. Here are a few of the most common you should keep out of your pet’s reach:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Ibuprofen
- Naproxen (Aleve)
- Antidepressants
- Pseudoephedrine
PLANTS: Greenery adds a little bit of extra life to our homes, but keep them up high and out of reach of your pets as they may find them to be a tasty snack.
- Lilies
- Azaleas
- Tulips
- Baby’s breath
- Carnations
- Hydrangeas
- Hyacinth
- Chamomile
- Ivy
AUTOMOTIVE PRODUCTS: Antifreeze and coolants, even in small quantities, can be fatal to your pet. Dogs and cats love the sweet taste of these toxic substances. keep those out of reach of your pet, and keep your pet away from the garage floor where the liquid may leak out of your vehicle.
OVER THE COUNTER FLEA AND TICK PRODUCTS: There are an overwhelming amount of options when it comes to flea and tick control. The products from your veterinarian are your safest options (Nexgard, Frontline Plus, Revolution and Seresto) when administered properly and with correct dosage. Many other flea and tick products that you can find at Wal-Mart or PetSmart you should avoid. Most of these products are ineffective and can have harmful side effects. Some of the most common brands you should avoid include: 
- Hartz
- Adams
- Sentry
If you are concerned that your pet may have been harmed by one of these products, please call your veterinarian immediately, or call the Pet Poison Helpline: 855-764-7661