Pet Poison Prevention: What to watch for to keep your furry friends safe

Dogs can chew through plastic medication containers, so it’s important to keep those out of sight and reach. (Callum Smith / CTV News)

March marks National Pet Poison Prevention Month – an issue that might be more common than you realize.

Jen Welshman, the associate director of the Nova Scotia SPCA College of Animal Welfare, says she hears about toxic consumptions “a couple times a day.”

“There’s so many things that can be toxic to dogs and cats, and every other animal as well,” she says.

As the next generation of veterinary assistants learn at the college, it’s an important part of the curriculum.

“It’s one of the top topics,” Welshman says. “Just because it’s so common.”

What to watch for

While some dangers to our furry friends may be obvious, others may not be.

Some more common items leading to poisonings include medication, with dogs able to chew through some plastic containers.

Cleaning supplies are also concerning. That can even be an issue if pets lick their paws after walking on freshly cleaned floors.

Then there are plants.

“We hear about plants like lilies, daffodils and tulips,” Welshman says.

A couple surprises

Two common ingredients – and one that is often used for dogs – can be a surprise.

“When it comes to cooking, the slight(est) amount of garlic and onion powder can be toxic as well,” she says.

That means it’s important to not let your pet lick your plates.

Welshman says another food to watch for is sugar-free peanut butter because it contains xylitol, also known as birch sugar and wood sugar. That’s also found in gum.

With Easter fast approaching, Welshman points to the importance of ensuring chocolate is stored safely – and all eggs are found from any hunt.

As recreational drugs become more common, there can be serious risk if pets accidentally consume some themselves.

But generally speaking, “A lot of times there’s vomiting and diarrhea,” following the consumption of a toxic substance.

“If you’re animal’s feeling really lethargic, kind of quiet and hiding, then that’s also something to look for. Pretty much anything out of the ordinary.”

Sometimes there can be internal organ damage, meaning symptoms don’t always show themselves – or they can present days later.

That’s why Welshman says it’s important to call a vet if you’re concerned about your pet possibly eating something poisonous.