Poisoning and Exposure to Toxins
Dogs,, like children, are vulnerable to poisoning. Dogs can be exposed to a wide range of substances that may be harmful to them, and they don’t have the ability to understand that there may be a risk. Poisons that affect dogs include human and veterinary drugs, plants and fungi, some human foods, DIY/household/garden products and venomous bites/stings. Just as parents have a responsibility to protect their children from poisons, so owners have a duty to take steps to prevent their pets from being exposed to toxic substances. Different substances can be poisonous to different animals and breeds, and what is fine for a human may be toxic to your pet. Likewise, what is okay for your dog may not be safe for your cat.
Swallowing poison is not the only risk. Dogs can also suffer from poisoning after substances have come into contact with their fur/skin, after a splash of a chemical in the eye, or of after inhalation of a poisonous vapour. Pet owners should be aware of these different possible routes for poison to affect their pets. Substances can also poison your dog if they are taken via the wrong route e.g. swallowing substances which are meant to be applied to the skin can cause poisoning.
The most common poison to affect dogs is a human drug. Ibuprofen, the painkiller that’s commonly used in humans, is the most common substance to poison dogs. Data gathered by the Veterinary Poisons Information Service also shows that the following substances are the next most common, in order of numbers of reported cases:
Keep your chocolate Easter eggs out of reach.
Symptoms of poisoning in dogs can be difficult to spot. A dog may show no adverse effects from poisoning for hours - or even days - and the symptoms of poisoning vary widely, ranging from convulsions to organ failure to gastro-intestinal disturbances, with many other possibilities. Instead of waiting for symptoms to develop, if you suspect your pet has been poisoned, you should take immediate action.
If you think your dog may have been poisoned, you need to make an urgent phone call. If you suspect - or know - that your pet has been exposed to a possible poison, a phone call for accurate information is the one critical thing you need to do. You may wish to phone your own vet, but vets are busy people, and you may not be able to a conversation with your vet immediately. An alternative is to call Animal Poison Line, on 01202 509000, an owners’ helpline run by the Veterinary Poisons Information Service.
This is staffed by vets and scientists, and is open 24 hours a day to help with any animal that may be at risk. A phone call to this service can be lifesaving, and it may also save you a trip to the vet if it’s not necessary. Before phoning, gather as much information about the poison as possible.
Before you call your vet or Animal PoisonLine, write down as much information as possible about the poison, including the brand name, ingredients, tablet strength, number of tablets and any other information. Also be ready to clearly explain the circumstances of the poisoning episode to the person on the other end of the line. Be ready to take your dog to the vet immediately after the phone call.
If the phone call conversation confirms that treatment by your vet is necessary, the sooner your dog or cat is seen, the better the outcome. While there are very few true antidotes to poisons, there are many specific poisoning treatments that can help.
Be ready to take your dog to the vet immediately. It is dangerous to try to make a dog vomit at home. In the past, people have tried to make their dog vomit using home remedies: this carries the risk of harming your pet, and it should never be attempted. Your vet has medication that is proven to induce vomiting in a safe, effective manner if it is required. Prevention of poisoning is better than cure
Many dogs die after poisoning episodes, and the emotional consequences can be devastating. Not only has the owner lost a beloved pet, but they feel guilty that they did not do more to prevent the incident. It is very easy to prevent poisoning, and it can be impossible to save the life of a seriously poisoned dog.
When dogs are around, you need to treat all hazardous substances in the same way as you’d look after them if a child was around. This means storing them in high-up, out-of-reach cupboards, or in locked cabinets. Remember that dogs are curious creatures that are often attracted to poisonous substances.
Preventing poisoning - whether by keeping chocolate out of reach at Easter, using rat bait in a pet-friendly way, or storing human medication in a locked cabinet - is far easier than trying to save the life of a poisoned dog.
Seasonal dangers that dog owners should be aware of her is some common poisonous substances and foods affect dogs.
It has split into seasons, but actually, most can be seen at any time of year. In all cases, if you suspect your dog has eaten something it shouldn’t, try to get as much information as possible – trade name, active ingredient, and the amount your dog has ingested and when it was ingested. If you have the original packaging, show it to your vet.
Spring and Easter poisons
Chocolate
Chocolate contains a stimulant called theobromine (a bit like caffeine) that is poisonous to dogs. The amount of theobromine differs in the different types of chocolate (dark chocolate has the most in it).
Raisins
Don’t forget that goodies such as hot-cross buns contain raisins. Grapes, raisins, currants and sultanas can cause renal (kidney) failure in dogs.
Spring flowers
Daffodils
Can be toxic, most often after ingestion of the bulb but occasionally after ingestion of flower heads and can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and lethargy that in severe cases may result in dehydration, tremors and convulsions. These signs can be seen from 15 minutes to one day following ingestion. Other spring flowers, such as crocuses and tulips, are considered to be less toxic but seek veterinary advice if you are worried your pet has ingested them.
Ivy
Dogs who eat ivy (Hedera helix) commonly develop dribbling, vomiting or diarrhoea. In more severe cases you may see blood in the vomitus or bloody faeces. Contact with ivy can cause skin reactions, conjunctivitis, itchiness, and skin rashes. Note that “Poison Ivy” is a different plant – Rhus radicans.
Bluebells
All parts of the plant are poisonous to dogs. Signs are related to stomach; intestine and heart function and include vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal discomfort. There is a risk of heart beat irregularity (arrhythmia) if a significant quantity be ingested.
Adder bites
The European adder is the only venomous snake native to the UK. Adults are around 50-60cm long and are characterised by having a black / brown zigzag pattern along their back and V shaped marking on the back of the head. They are commonly found on dry, sandy heaths, sand dunes, rocky hillsides, moorland and woodland edges. They generally only bite when provoked by humans, and dogs and bites rarely occur during the winter when the snake is hibernating. Bites are more frequent in the spring and summer and result in local swelling. The swelling may spread and can be severe. Other signs include pale mucous membranes, bruising, salivation, vomiting, diarrhoea, dehydration, restlessness, drowsiness and lethargy. Eventually animals may collapse, have blood clotting problems, tremors or convulsions. Seek veterinary attention quickly if your dog is bitten. Anti-venom is used if available (although it can be difficult to obtain) and if considered appropriate.
Anti-histamines
From spring to early summer the pollen count is at its highest and this is when owners are likely to be stocking up on their anti-histamine medication. Ingestion of large amounts of anti-histamines results in signs that may include vomiting, lethargy, in-coordination, wobbliness and tremors. Signs develop within 4-7 hours of ingestion. Some dogs may become hyperactive and hyper-excitable and if large amounts of anti-histamine have been eaten convulsions, respiratory depression and coma may occur.
Summer poisons
Xylitol
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener commonly found in sugar free chewing gum, nicotine replacement gum, sweets and as a sugar substitute in baking. If ingested by dogs it causes hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar level). You may see vomiting, an increased heart rate, wobbliness, convulsions or coma. In severe case of hypoglycaemia fitting may result which if prolonged, can lead to permanent neurological (brain/nerve) damage. Liver failure has also been associated with the ingestion of xylitol in dogs. The onset of signs is often less than an hour but can be delayed for 24-48 hours after ingestion. Liver damage may also develop without the signs associated with hypoglycaemia and may occur up to 3 days after ingestion.
Ant powders, baits and gels
Ingestion of ant powders, baits or gels rarely results in significant poisoning. The active components of home use products tend to be at a low concentration and are often housed in containers e.g. ant bait stations. However ingestion of some products causes significant problems and you should contact your vet for advice. Signs you may see include constricted pupils, salivation, wobbliness, tremors and an increased body temperature. Severe cases may produce respiratory depression (not breathing fast enough), convulsions and coma and the duration of effects can be very prolonged.
Slug and snail pellets
Metaldehyde based slug pellets are among the most dangerous and common poisonings that is seen in dogs. Even small amounts of pellets can cause significant poisoning and severe signs can occur within an hour of consumption. Dogs that have eaten slug pellets need to be seen ASAP as rapid intervention can save their life. Signs of poisoning can include; incoordination, muscle spasms, muscle rigidity, twitching, tremors and convulsions. Intensive treatment involving heavy sedation, control of convulsions and associated life support measures is often needed.
Toad toxicity
There are two species of toad native to Britain, the Common toad and the Natterjack toad. The Common toad is widespread, whilst the Natterjack toad is a protected species found in East Anglia and the North West of England. Exposure to toads occurs between June and August when they are spawning, toads being most active around dawn and dusk. Most toad-related incidents occur in the evening when dogs lick or eat them. This can lead to signs including hypersalivation (dribbling), frothing, foaming, oral pain, vomiting, wobbliness, shaking, an increase in body temperature and collapse. In severe cases convulsions can occur. You can thoroughly rinse your dog’s mouth out (don’t let them swallow the water) then contact your vet for further advice.
Autumn poisons
Conkers
Serious cases of poisoning are rare – ingestion can cause marked gastro-intestinal signs – drooling, retching, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain. The conker’s case and conkers themselves also present a risk by causing an intestinal blockage. Dogs usually vomit any ingested conkers quickly and treatment to control vomiting may be needed.
Anticoagulant rodenticides
Most, but not all, rodenticides in the UK contain anti-coagulant compounds that interfere with a rat’s ability to clot its own blood. One off exposure to products bought in garden centres often does not cause problems. However, repeated exposure to products or exposure to professional rodent baits can cause disruption to a dog’s blood clotting ability and result in massive haemorrhage (bleeding). The effects may be delayed for several days – blood-clotting (coagulation) tests are often needed to determine if a dog is at risk of developing problems. Treatment involves giving an antidote and in severe cases transfusions of plasma or whole blood.
Luminous necklaces
The chemical mixture within these necklaces is very irritating to the gums – commonly causing salivation (dribbing), frothing/foaming from the mouth, vomiting and stomach pain. Although the signs can look dramatic, ingestion is unlikely to cause significant problems.
Oak/acorns
Exposure to acorns in dogs is common in the autumn and winter months. The toxic ingredient is thought to be tannic acid, which can cause damage to the liver and kidneys. Signs include vomiting, diarrhoea (with or without blood), abdominal pain, inappetance and lethargy. Ingested acorns can also cause an intestinal blockage.
Winter and Christmas poisons
Food hazards
Chocolate, onions, nuts, blue cheese, fruit cakes, puddings and mince pies can all be toxic to dogs. Watch out for turkey bones as these can cause choking, constipation or cause damage to your dog’s intestines.
Christmas trees and plants
Most species are low toxicity but may cause a mild gastrointestinal upset (vomiting and/or diarrhoea) if chewed. Tinsel and decorations can cause intestinal blockages if eaten and your pet may get a nasty shock if they chew through the electrical cable for your Christmas lights. Holly, mistletoe and poinsettia are all toxic to dogs so keep them out of their reach.
Batteries
Ingestion of batteries is more common at this time of year. If the battery is chewed and pierced it can cause chemical burns and heavy metal poisoning. If they are swallowed whole it is possible they will cause a blockage. All batteries are potentially toxic so if you suspect your dog has chewed or swallowed a battery speak to your local vet.
Antifreeze
Ethylene glycol (anti freeze) ingestion is very dangerous. It is sweet-tasting and very palatable. Even a relatively small quantity can cause serious kidney damage and can be fatal. Unfortunately the longer the delay between ingestion of the anti freeze and initiation of treatment the less favourable the prognosis.
All year round
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs are used for pain relief. Many human products are available over-the-counter, such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, diclofenac, naproxen or aspirin. Human NSAIDs can be toxic to all animals, but particularly to dogs where they can cause severe stomach ulceration and acute kidney or liver failure. Please do be very careful and always consult your vet before giving your dog any form of medication.
Animal NSAIDs are commonly used in veterinary medicine with trade names including Rimadyl and Metacam. Many of these have been made palatable to assist owners in giving medications to their pets. However if your pet gets hold of the medication they can eat more than they should. In cases of poisoning or overdose, toxic effects develop quickly and include persistent vomiting, vomiting blood, diarrhoea, and abdominal tenderness. Weakness and depression are often noted, though some animals show no signs of pain. Gastric (stomach) ulceration can occur without other clinical signs being present. Kidney damage is usually delayed by up to five days after poisoning and animals that are already unwell dehydrated or with poor kidney function are at greater risk of toxic effects.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D compounds (calciferol, calcipotriol, calcitriol, cholecalciferol, tacalcitol, alfacalcidol and paricalcitol) are present in a wide variety of products. Examples include vitamin supplements, cod liver oil, rodenticides and feed additives. In human medicine they are commonly used in psoriasis treatments and vitamin D deficiencies. Veterinary uses include control of low blood calcium in cats and dogs with kidney disease. All vitamin D compounds are potentially toxic to dogs. Signs of toxicity depend on the compound and amount ingested, in the case of calcipotriol, calcitriol and tacalcitol signs may be seen within six hours and include weakness and lethargy, depression, increased water intake and increased urine output, profuse vomiting and diarrhoea. Signs progress to wobbliness, arching of the back, muscle spasms, and twitching. Fatal cases do occur, especially in dogs following ingestion of human psoriasis creams, however effective treatments are available in animals that have not developed advanced poisoning.
Mushrooms
The most common account of poisoning is by the mushroom Amanita phalloides, which is extremely toxic. Signs include mild vomiting and diarrhoea and can lead to more severe digestive problems, neurological (brain/nerve) disorders and liver disease.
Salt
Common products that are very high in salt include – sterilising fluids, water softeners, dishwasher salt, rock salt (used to de-ice roads) and some bath products (e.g. dead sea salt, bath salt), stock cubes, homemade play-doh and gravy powders. Salt (sodium chloride) toxicity is extremely dangerous and potentially fatal – a toxic dose may be as little as 1/16th of a teaspoon per kg of body weight. Do not attempt to make your dog sick (following ingestion of a poison) using salt water, it can cause severe problems and interfere with the treatment your dog needs.
Substances of low toxicity
Here is a list of common items that owners report their dogs have eaten. Most cause only mild gastrointestinal signs (such as vomiting or diarrhoea) but nevertheless contact your vet for further advice if your dog has eaten any of the following.
Dogs,, like children, are vulnerable to poisoning. Dogs can be exposed to a wide range of substances that may be harmful to them, and they don’t have the ability to understand that there may be a risk. Poisons that affect dogs include human and veterinary drugs, plants and fungi, some human foods, DIY/household/garden products and venomous bites/stings. Just as parents have a responsibility to protect their children from poisons, so owners have a duty to take steps to prevent their pets from being exposed to toxic substances. Different substances can be poisonous to different animals and breeds, and what is fine for a human may be toxic to your pet. Likewise, what is okay for your dog may not be safe for your cat.
Swallowing poison is not the only risk. Dogs can also suffer from poisoning after substances have come into contact with their fur/skin, after a splash of a chemical in the eye, or of after inhalation of a poisonous vapour. Pet owners should be aware of these different possible routes for poison to affect their pets. Substances can also poison your dog if they are taken via the wrong route e.g. swallowing substances which are meant to be applied to the skin can cause poisoning.
The most common poison to affect dogs is a human drug. Ibuprofen, the painkiller that’s commonly used in humans, is the most common substance to poison dogs. Data gathered by the Veterinary Poisons Information Service also shows that the following substances are the next most common, in order of numbers of reported cases:
- Rat poison
- Paracetamol
- Grapes ( and sultanas, raisins and currants)
- Chocolate (chocolate poisoning is particularly common at Easter. Keep your treats out of reach)
Keep your chocolate Easter eggs out of reach.
Symptoms of poisoning in dogs can be difficult to spot. A dog may show no adverse effects from poisoning for hours - or even days - and the symptoms of poisoning vary widely, ranging from convulsions to organ failure to gastro-intestinal disturbances, with many other possibilities. Instead of waiting for symptoms to develop, if you suspect your pet has been poisoned, you should take immediate action.
If you think your dog may have been poisoned, you need to make an urgent phone call. If you suspect - or know - that your pet has been exposed to a possible poison, a phone call for accurate information is the one critical thing you need to do. You may wish to phone your own vet, but vets are busy people, and you may not be able to a conversation with your vet immediately. An alternative is to call Animal Poison Line, on 01202 509000, an owners’ helpline run by the Veterinary Poisons Information Service.
This is staffed by vets and scientists, and is open 24 hours a day to help with any animal that may be at risk. A phone call to this service can be lifesaving, and it may also save you a trip to the vet if it’s not necessary. Before phoning, gather as much information about the poison as possible.
Before you call your vet or Animal PoisonLine, write down as much information as possible about the poison, including the brand name, ingredients, tablet strength, number of tablets and any other information. Also be ready to clearly explain the circumstances of the poisoning episode to the person on the other end of the line. Be ready to take your dog to the vet immediately after the phone call.
If the phone call conversation confirms that treatment by your vet is necessary, the sooner your dog or cat is seen, the better the outcome. While there are very few true antidotes to poisons, there are many specific poisoning treatments that can help.
Be ready to take your dog to the vet immediately. It is dangerous to try to make a dog vomit at home. In the past, people have tried to make their dog vomit using home remedies: this carries the risk of harming your pet, and it should never be attempted. Your vet has medication that is proven to induce vomiting in a safe, effective manner if it is required. Prevention of poisoning is better than cure
Many dogs die after poisoning episodes, and the emotional consequences can be devastating. Not only has the owner lost a beloved pet, but they feel guilty that they did not do more to prevent the incident. It is very easy to prevent poisoning, and it can be impossible to save the life of a seriously poisoned dog.
When dogs are around, you need to treat all hazardous substances in the same way as you’d look after them if a child was around. This means storing them in high-up, out-of-reach cupboards, or in locked cabinets. Remember that dogs are curious creatures that are often attracted to poisonous substances.
Preventing poisoning - whether by keeping chocolate out of reach at Easter, using rat bait in a pet-friendly way, or storing human medication in a locked cabinet - is far easier than trying to save the life of a poisoned dog.
Seasonal dangers that dog owners should be aware of her is some common poisonous substances and foods affect dogs.
It has split into seasons, but actually, most can be seen at any time of year. In all cases, if you suspect your dog has eaten something it shouldn’t, try to get as much information as possible – trade name, active ingredient, and the amount your dog has ingested and when it was ingested. If you have the original packaging, show it to your vet.
Spring and Easter poisons
Chocolate
Chocolate contains a stimulant called theobromine (a bit like caffeine) that is poisonous to dogs. The amount of theobromine differs in the different types of chocolate (dark chocolate has the most in it).
Raisins
Don’t forget that goodies such as hot-cross buns contain raisins. Grapes, raisins, currants and sultanas can cause renal (kidney) failure in dogs.
Spring flowers
Daffodils
Can be toxic, most often after ingestion of the bulb but occasionally after ingestion of flower heads and can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and lethargy that in severe cases may result in dehydration, tremors and convulsions. These signs can be seen from 15 minutes to one day following ingestion. Other spring flowers, such as crocuses and tulips, are considered to be less toxic but seek veterinary advice if you are worried your pet has ingested them.
Ivy
Dogs who eat ivy (Hedera helix) commonly develop dribbling, vomiting or diarrhoea. In more severe cases you may see blood in the vomitus or bloody faeces. Contact with ivy can cause skin reactions, conjunctivitis, itchiness, and skin rashes. Note that “Poison Ivy” is a different plant – Rhus radicans.
Bluebells
All parts of the plant are poisonous to dogs. Signs are related to stomach; intestine and heart function and include vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal discomfort. There is a risk of heart beat irregularity (arrhythmia) if a significant quantity be ingested.
Adder bites
The European adder is the only venomous snake native to the UK. Adults are around 50-60cm long and are characterised by having a black / brown zigzag pattern along their back and V shaped marking on the back of the head. They are commonly found on dry, sandy heaths, sand dunes, rocky hillsides, moorland and woodland edges. They generally only bite when provoked by humans, and dogs and bites rarely occur during the winter when the snake is hibernating. Bites are more frequent in the spring and summer and result in local swelling. The swelling may spread and can be severe. Other signs include pale mucous membranes, bruising, salivation, vomiting, diarrhoea, dehydration, restlessness, drowsiness and lethargy. Eventually animals may collapse, have blood clotting problems, tremors or convulsions. Seek veterinary attention quickly if your dog is bitten. Anti-venom is used if available (although it can be difficult to obtain) and if considered appropriate.
Anti-histamines
From spring to early summer the pollen count is at its highest and this is when owners are likely to be stocking up on their anti-histamine medication. Ingestion of large amounts of anti-histamines results in signs that may include vomiting, lethargy, in-coordination, wobbliness and tremors. Signs develop within 4-7 hours of ingestion. Some dogs may become hyperactive and hyper-excitable and if large amounts of anti-histamine have been eaten convulsions, respiratory depression and coma may occur.
Summer poisons
Xylitol
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener commonly found in sugar free chewing gum, nicotine replacement gum, sweets and as a sugar substitute in baking. If ingested by dogs it causes hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar level). You may see vomiting, an increased heart rate, wobbliness, convulsions or coma. In severe case of hypoglycaemia fitting may result which if prolonged, can lead to permanent neurological (brain/nerve) damage. Liver failure has also been associated with the ingestion of xylitol in dogs. The onset of signs is often less than an hour but can be delayed for 24-48 hours after ingestion. Liver damage may also develop without the signs associated with hypoglycaemia and may occur up to 3 days after ingestion.
Ant powders, baits and gels
Ingestion of ant powders, baits or gels rarely results in significant poisoning. The active components of home use products tend to be at a low concentration and are often housed in containers e.g. ant bait stations. However ingestion of some products causes significant problems and you should contact your vet for advice. Signs you may see include constricted pupils, salivation, wobbliness, tremors and an increased body temperature. Severe cases may produce respiratory depression (not breathing fast enough), convulsions and coma and the duration of effects can be very prolonged.
Slug and snail pellets
Metaldehyde based slug pellets are among the most dangerous and common poisonings that is seen in dogs. Even small amounts of pellets can cause significant poisoning and severe signs can occur within an hour of consumption. Dogs that have eaten slug pellets need to be seen ASAP as rapid intervention can save their life. Signs of poisoning can include; incoordination, muscle spasms, muscle rigidity, twitching, tremors and convulsions. Intensive treatment involving heavy sedation, control of convulsions and associated life support measures is often needed.
Toad toxicity
There are two species of toad native to Britain, the Common toad and the Natterjack toad. The Common toad is widespread, whilst the Natterjack toad is a protected species found in East Anglia and the North West of England. Exposure to toads occurs between June and August when they are spawning, toads being most active around dawn and dusk. Most toad-related incidents occur in the evening when dogs lick or eat them. This can lead to signs including hypersalivation (dribbling), frothing, foaming, oral pain, vomiting, wobbliness, shaking, an increase in body temperature and collapse. In severe cases convulsions can occur. You can thoroughly rinse your dog’s mouth out (don’t let them swallow the water) then contact your vet for further advice.
Autumn poisons
Conkers
Serious cases of poisoning are rare – ingestion can cause marked gastro-intestinal signs – drooling, retching, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain. The conker’s case and conkers themselves also present a risk by causing an intestinal blockage. Dogs usually vomit any ingested conkers quickly and treatment to control vomiting may be needed.
Anticoagulant rodenticides
Most, but not all, rodenticides in the UK contain anti-coagulant compounds that interfere with a rat’s ability to clot its own blood. One off exposure to products bought in garden centres often does not cause problems. However, repeated exposure to products or exposure to professional rodent baits can cause disruption to a dog’s blood clotting ability and result in massive haemorrhage (bleeding). The effects may be delayed for several days – blood-clotting (coagulation) tests are often needed to determine if a dog is at risk of developing problems. Treatment involves giving an antidote and in severe cases transfusions of plasma or whole blood.
Luminous necklaces
The chemical mixture within these necklaces is very irritating to the gums – commonly causing salivation (dribbing), frothing/foaming from the mouth, vomiting and stomach pain. Although the signs can look dramatic, ingestion is unlikely to cause significant problems.
Oak/acorns
Exposure to acorns in dogs is common in the autumn and winter months. The toxic ingredient is thought to be tannic acid, which can cause damage to the liver and kidneys. Signs include vomiting, diarrhoea (with or without blood), abdominal pain, inappetance and lethargy. Ingested acorns can also cause an intestinal blockage.
Winter and Christmas poisons
Food hazards
Chocolate, onions, nuts, blue cheese, fruit cakes, puddings and mince pies can all be toxic to dogs. Watch out for turkey bones as these can cause choking, constipation or cause damage to your dog’s intestines.
Christmas trees and plants
Most species are low toxicity but may cause a mild gastrointestinal upset (vomiting and/or diarrhoea) if chewed. Tinsel and decorations can cause intestinal blockages if eaten and your pet may get a nasty shock if they chew through the electrical cable for your Christmas lights. Holly, mistletoe and poinsettia are all toxic to dogs so keep them out of their reach.
Batteries
Ingestion of batteries is more common at this time of year. If the battery is chewed and pierced it can cause chemical burns and heavy metal poisoning. If they are swallowed whole it is possible they will cause a blockage. All batteries are potentially toxic so if you suspect your dog has chewed or swallowed a battery speak to your local vet.
Antifreeze
Ethylene glycol (anti freeze) ingestion is very dangerous. It is sweet-tasting and very palatable. Even a relatively small quantity can cause serious kidney damage and can be fatal. Unfortunately the longer the delay between ingestion of the anti freeze and initiation of treatment the less favourable the prognosis.
All year round
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs are used for pain relief. Many human products are available over-the-counter, such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, diclofenac, naproxen or aspirin. Human NSAIDs can be toxic to all animals, but particularly to dogs where they can cause severe stomach ulceration and acute kidney or liver failure. Please do be very careful and always consult your vet before giving your dog any form of medication.
Animal NSAIDs are commonly used in veterinary medicine with trade names including Rimadyl and Metacam. Many of these have been made palatable to assist owners in giving medications to their pets. However if your pet gets hold of the medication they can eat more than they should. In cases of poisoning or overdose, toxic effects develop quickly and include persistent vomiting, vomiting blood, diarrhoea, and abdominal tenderness. Weakness and depression are often noted, though some animals show no signs of pain. Gastric (stomach) ulceration can occur without other clinical signs being present. Kidney damage is usually delayed by up to five days after poisoning and animals that are already unwell dehydrated or with poor kidney function are at greater risk of toxic effects.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D compounds (calciferol, calcipotriol, calcitriol, cholecalciferol, tacalcitol, alfacalcidol and paricalcitol) are present in a wide variety of products. Examples include vitamin supplements, cod liver oil, rodenticides and feed additives. In human medicine they are commonly used in psoriasis treatments and vitamin D deficiencies. Veterinary uses include control of low blood calcium in cats and dogs with kidney disease. All vitamin D compounds are potentially toxic to dogs. Signs of toxicity depend on the compound and amount ingested, in the case of calcipotriol, calcitriol and tacalcitol signs may be seen within six hours and include weakness and lethargy, depression, increased water intake and increased urine output, profuse vomiting and diarrhoea. Signs progress to wobbliness, arching of the back, muscle spasms, and twitching. Fatal cases do occur, especially in dogs following ingestion of human psoriasis creams, however effective treatments are available in animals that have not developed advanced poisoning.
Mushrooms
The most common account of poisoning is by the mushroom Amanita phalloides, which is extremely toxic. Signs include mild vomiting and diarrhoea and can lead to more severe digestive problems, neurological (brain/nerve) disorders and liver disease.
Salt
Common products that are very high in salt include – sterilising fluids, water softeners, dishwasher salt, rock salt (used to de-ice roads) and some bath products (e.g. dead sea salt, bath salt), stock cubes, homemade play-doh and gravy powders. Salt (sodium chloride) toxicity is extremely dangerous and potentially fatal – a toxic dose may be as little as 1/16th of a teaspoon per kg of body weight. Do not attempt to make your dog sick (following ingestion of a poison) using salt water, it can cause severe problems and interfere with the treatment your dog needs.
Substances of low toxicity
Here is a list of common items that owners report their dogs have eaten. Most cause only mild gastrointestinal signs (such as vomiting or diarrhoea) but nevertheless contact your vet for further advice if your dog has eaten any of the following.
- Blu-tack – and other similar adhesives
- Chalk
- Charcoal
- Coal (real or artificial)
- Cut-flower/houseplant food
- Expanded polystyrene
- Folic acid tablets
- Fuchsia plants
- Honeysuckle plants
- Matches
- Oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy tablets
- Pyracantha plants
- Rowan tree
- Silica gel – in small sachets found in packaging of moisture sensitive goods
- Wax candles / crayons
- Sun cream
- After sun
- Ice packs (methylcellulose)
- Sunflowers
- Sand
- Slugs and snails (not toxic but are potential carriers of Lungworm)
