Pet Poison Control

Accidental ingestion of household poisons by our pets is unfortunately an all too common occurence. The sooner a pet poisoning is diagnosed, the easier, safer and less expensive it becomes to treat. Our goal is to ensure that our clients are prepared for such emergencies and are educated about potential toxins in your home or in your pet’s environment.

Our most valuable resource is the Animal Poison Control Center. Their website is full of valuable information and has a comprehensive list of toxins and recognizable signs. There is also a great resource on their page to help you with puppy and kitten proofing your home!

www.petpoisonhelpline.com

Be Prepared.

RainTree Veterinary Hospital shares on call with multiple local veterinary hospitals to provide care in the event of after hour emergencies. In the event of an emergency, please call 250-941-1145 and you will be directed to the veterinarian on call as soon as possible.

Create a First Aid Kit for your pet. 

Items to Include for Potentially Poisoned Pets:

• Phone number for your veterinarian: 250-941-1145
• Phone number for Pet Poison Helpline: 1-800-213-6680
• Hydrogen peroxide 3 percent used to induce vomiting in dogs– make sure it’s not expired (do not administer unless directed to do so by veterinarian)
• Oral dosing syringe or turkey baster – for administering hydrogen peroxide
• Teaspoon/tablespoon set – for measuring appropriate amount of hydrogen peroxide
• Liquid hand dish washing detergent, such as Dawn or Palmolive
• Rubber or latex gloves 
• Ophthalmic saline solution or artificial tears
• Can of tuna packed in water or tasty canned pet food
• Sweet electrolyte-containing beverage
• Corn syrup (1/4 cup) 

Top 10 Pet Posions

You can find a complete list of poisonous items to cats and dogs as well as where they are commonly found here.

For quick reference, these are the ten most common items that are poisonous to cats and dogs according to the Pet Poison Helpline. 

Dog Poisons:

1. Chocolate
2. Mouse and Rat Poisons (rodenticides)
3. Anti-inflammatory medications
4. Xylitol (sugar-free gum & more)
5. Grapes & Raisins
6. Antidepressant Medications
7. Acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol)
8. Vitamin D Overdose
9. Stimulant Medications (e.g., for ADD/ADHD)
10. Fertilizers

Cat Poisons:

1. Lilies (Lilium species)
2. Spot-on flea/tick medication for dogs
3. Household Cleaners
4. Antidepressant Medications
5. Essential Oils
6. Anti-inflammatory Medications
7. Mouse & Rat Poisons (rodenticides)
8. Stimulant Medications (e.g., for ADD/ADHD)
9. Onions & Garlic
10. Vitamin D Overdose

If you suspect your pet has ingested any of these items or any other questionable substance, call Pet Poison Helpline or your veterinarian for assistance. Accurate and timely identification of the suspected substance is very important. Having the container, package, or label in hand will save valuable time and may save the life of your pet.