Poisons are harmful to the body and can result in death. We owe it to our companions to be vigilent in controlling their exposure to poisons by storing them out of their reach, destroying the ones we do not need or use, and being aware of the dangers lurking when we take or put our dogs outside.

Poisons found in our homes are often everyday products that we are so accustomed to using and having around, we may even forget about the harm they could cause if our pets got into them.
 

Here is list of some poisonous items that may be in and around your household:

-pesticides on grass/lawn chemicals
-rat/snail baits
-plants/flowers: some poisonous house plants include: lilies, philodendron, dieffenbachia, elephant ear, eucalyptus, spider plants, azalea, ivy, amaryllis, pyracantha, oleander, boxwood, jerusalem cherry, plant bulbs, holly, mistletoe, poinsettia
-chocolate: contains theobromine, a powerful stimulant which is toxic to pets; dark chocolate is espescially dangerous
-onions, the green part of potatoes
-pennies
-batteries
-cigarettes or cigarette butts
-household products: cleaning agents, bleach, ammonia, disinfectants, drain cleaner, oven cleaner, paint, gasoline, rat poison,antifreeze...pay particular attention to antifreeze as it has a sweet odor and taste which attracts pets; window washing  solution also contains antifreeze
-cosmetics, shampoos, skin creams, hair "perm" solutions, hair "dyes", depilatories, suntan lotion
-medications: sleeping pills, antihistamines, aspirin, acetaminophen, and all other medications 


If you suspect poisoning, SEEK IMMEDIATE VETERINARY CARE. Don't take any chances! Always be prepared for an emergency by having a prepared file of information on poison prevention & tips, first aid tips and the telephone number of the nearest emergency veterinary clinic. 


Some signs your pet may be exhibiting which may indicate that poisoning is occuring are:

-apparent discomfort and pain
-drowsiness
-vomiting
-diahrrea
-emptying of bladder/bowel
-excessive salivation/drooling
-breathing problems
-convulsion/twitching
-disorientation/hallucinations
-gum color ( changes to blue, pale or very red )
-strange odor/breath
-burns to the mouth/tongue
-if you notice a bite mark, your pet may be poisoned because of it

For more information on what to do if you suspect poisoning, go to http://www.petalert.com.au/faid/fa15.php