March 19-25, 2023 is Pet Poison Prevention Week

PHOENIX (March 20, 2023) – March is National Pet Poison Prevention Awareness Month and in advance of Pet Poison Prevention Week taking place now through March 25th, the Arizona Humane Society (AHS) wants to remind pet owners of the dangers associated with common household items.

Common poisonous substances that pets can encounter typically fit into five categories: human medications (Ibuprofen, antidepressants, Acetaminophen, Marijuana edibles), human foods (xylitol, avocado, onions, grapes, raisins), insecticides (insect baits), rodenticides (mouse and rat poisons) and dietary supplements and vitamins (iron, Vitamin D). In addition, common household cleaners (bleaches, disinfectants) and common plants (lilies, tulip bulbs and oleander) can also be of great concern.

Preventing poisonous encounters is as simple as keeping all of these items out of a pet’s reach just as you would a child. Do not leave pills, pill bottles or other items on counters and secure all pills, cleaners and insecticides. It is best to secure these items in cabinets above counters where they are not accessible whatsoever. If they must be stored in lower cabinets, ensure that they are equipped with childproof locks. Please note that drain cleaners should never be stored in lower cabinets without a childproof lock. Also be very careful when handling pills to ensure your pet does not ingest one that has accidentally been dropped on the ground. Never assume that human medication is suitable for a pet and discuss all options with your veterinarian first.

Although symptoms of poisoning can vary, they often include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, lack of appetite, staggering, trembling or trouble breathing. If your pet does exhibit these signs, call your veterinarian immediately or visit the nearest 24-hour emergency veterinary hospital and call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888.426.4435. In addition, pet owners can invest in an emergency first-aid kit for their pet, but will need to consult their veterinarian first regarding how and when to use those items.

Emergency Pet First-aid Kit*:

  • Fresh bottle hydrogen peroxide, 3 percent USP to induce vomiting
  • Bulb syringe to administer peroxide
  • Saline eye solution
  • Artificial tear gel for eye lubrication
  • Mild grease-cutting dishwashing liquid for skin contamination
  • Forceps to remove stingers
  • Muzzle in case of fear/biting
  • Can of wet food
  • Pet carrier

*Always consult a veterinarian first to determine when and how to use emergency first-aid items.

According to the ASPCA, its Animal Poison Control Center answers over 200,000 calls for help annually.

The ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If you think your pet may have ingested a potentially poisonous substance, please contact your veterinarian and the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888.426.4435.

About Dr. Steven Hansen, Arizona Humane Society President and CEO
Prior to joining AHS in 2013, Dr. Hansen spent 16 years with the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), most recently as the organization’s Chief Operating Officer. He is one of a handful of veterinarians board-certified by the American Board of Toxicology and the American Board of Veterinary Toxicology. In recognition of National Poison Prevention Month, Dr. Steven Hansen offers these poison safety tips to help keep your pet safe.

March 22, 2023
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