Paws off the Poison!
Everyone’s been there: You’re eating something and your dog gives you that look. Suddenly you realize the only key to your dog’s happiness is the morsel of food in your hand, en route to your mouth. Did you know, however, that some morsels are potentially lethal and can make your pet very sick. Most people know not to give chocolate to dogs; nevertheless, other foods should be kept away from pets as well: avocados, coffee, nutmeg, onions, garlic, raw fish, and sugar-free candy or gum with “Xylitol” in the ingredient list. Also, one mysterious food toxin is grapes. The Animal Poison Control Center states that just a handful of grapes can make your pet very sick. No one’s quite sure what’s so toxic about grapes, but avoid raisins as well.
By far the most common way pets are poisoned is the accidental ingestion of human medication. Ibuprofen, the pain reliever in Advil, Midol, Motrin, and other formulas, is very toxic to dogs. Also, Acetompinophen(sometimes designated APAP) is found in Tylenol, Vicodin, Lorcet, and many cough syrups, and a single, small dose will ravage pet kidneys and livers. Other chemicals to keep locked away from curious pets are Lysol, bleach, and other household cleaners, and many insecticides, including ones marketed toward pet owners! Keep in mind also that anti-freeze has a sweet smell, and is very attractive to young animals, despite how
lethal it is. Use cat litter or unprocessed sand to absorb the liquid from your driveway, and then sweep it up and throw it away.
Stay safe, and expect more on pet toxins soon!
Yours Truly,
The K9 Amiga
