Many pet owners are unaware of the environmental hazards that lurk inside and outside of their homes. These everyday items, décor, foods and other household staples can be potentially dangerous and sometimes fatal to our canine companions. Therefore, it is important to remember that adopting a four-legged family member means committing to their wellbeing and considering the dog’s safety.
We may consider it harmless to share our snacks with our furry friends, but with their digestive tract being very different from our own, their bodies cannot process the same food humans can. A bag of M&M’s is a treat for a child, but is toxic to a dog. Theobromine is an ingredient in chocolate that is poisonous to pets. The amount of chocolate that would be lethal to a dog depends on the dog’s size, among other factors. If a dog has ingested too much chocolate, the toxicity level from the theobromine can result in heart rate and respitory problems, seizures and comas.
According to the St. Louis Emergency Animal Clinic, dogs that have ingested chewing gum, candy and breathe mints containing xyilitol may find themselves on the operating table having these goodies surgically removed. The xyilitol causes these candies to expand in their stomachs, preventing elimination of waste and causing toxins to release into a dog’s system. This can lead to death. Keep gum, candy and mints out of reach and keep purses and backpacks zipped to prevent easy access for the dog.
Other edibles to keep away from dogs are onions, avocadoes, grapes, raisins, coffee grounds and garlic (to name just a few). These delicacies will cause vomiting and diarrhea; while others can also be toxic in high doses. Dogs often root through trash containers to find food scraps that have unique odors to dogs. Rotting food, mold and bacteria in some trash containers can cause a dog painful stomach discomfort. A dog’s nose will also find fatty, rich food very appealing; resulting in painful pancreatic inflammation. The old adage “curiosity killed the cat” can apply to dogs when referring to experiments with mystery treats with unique aromas. It is our responsibility as trusted protectors to safeguard them from these dangerous taste tests.
“Take two aspirin and call me in the morning,” is great advice when it comes from a human physician; but not from a veterinarian. From ibuprofen to anti-depressants, no prescribed or over the counter medication for a human is safe for an animal. Gastric ulcers and kidney failure are just two complications that can occur when dogs are given medicines for human intake only. If your dog is in pain, has a fever, or suffers from allergies, call your veterinarian and he/she will recommend the best treatment for your dog’s ailment. Frequently, alternative treatments are recommended to avoid having the dog take any medicine.
Household chemicals and cleaners are environmental hazards that apply to both pets and humans. Bleach, soap, lead paint, turpentine and an array of other chemicals in the home can be fatal for all. We can read the labels on these products to educate ourselves on the proper use and precautions to take while in use, but our dogs have no idea the trouble they could get into nosing around these things. Again, they loyally depend on our best instincts and care to protect them from harm. Many veterinarians recommend kneeling to the dog’s eye level to see what the dog sees. Anything with a warning label should be moved above the dog’s reach or stored in a securely closed cabinet/closet. Childproof latches are suggested to keep clever canines from prying into these storage areas. The cost of these safety devices from your local hardware store will be significantly less than the cost from your veterinarian to attempt to save your dog's life. When the damage is too severe to repair or treat is when you realize no price can be put on the kind of love received from your beloved four-legged companion.
Many hazards a dog can come into contact with look similar to the toys that cause tails to wag at top speed. Mothballs are a perfect example of such a hazard. Mothballs contain naphthalene which is extremely dangerous if consumed. It is so dangerous that it can cause brain damage, as well as blood cell damage to major organs like the kidneys and liver. Storing things in cedar closets or in sealed storage containers can eliminate the possibility of life lasting damage to your pet.
There are many more hazards finding their way into your dog’s environment everyday. You can contact the American Veterinary Medical Association for a detailed list of things to be cautious of. They will also provide you with the contact information for an animal poison control hotline in your area. The above-mentioned are only hazards on the inside of your home. There will be a follow up article on the environmental dangers that are outdoors. In the meantime, spring cleaning is a perfect time to safeguard the inside of your home for the health and comfort of your dog. After all, doesn’t your dog instinctively, unconditionally do all he/she can to comfort you and keep you safe from harm?
About the Author
Rachel Pelizzari is a professional pet sitter with Fetch Pet Care and a pet writer for a small local publication in St. Louis, Missouri. Her dogs, J.J. who is a seven-year old Bichon Frise and Willis Magillis, a Poodle/Jack Russell mix who is one-year old, unleashed her passion for animals along with her gift of writing. She has an online pet boutique (www.shoppupfiction.com), and is an active member in various pet organizations. Rachel volunteers in transporting homeless pets across the country to rescue groups and foster and forever homes. Her ongoing experience with and interest in these canine kids drives her to continually educate herself and others on how pets can become a valuable asset to loving families.
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