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Household Toxins

Household Toxins and Toxic Foods

Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting and joyful experience. As new pet owners, it's crucial to ensure your home is a safe environment. Many common household items, plants and foods can be dangerous or even toxic to dogs. This guide will help you identify potential hazards and provide tips on how to keep your puppy safe and healthy.

Common Household Chemicals

Many everyday household products can be harmful to dogs. It's important to store these items out of reach and be aware of the potential dangers they pose.

Cleaning Products

Household cleaners such as bleach, ammonia and disinfectants can cause severe irritation or poisoning if ingested or inhaled by dogs. Always keep cleaning supplies locked away and use pet safe alternatives whenever possible.

Pesticides and Insecticides

Products designed to kill insects, rodents or weeds can be extremely toxic to dogs. Symptoms of pesticide poisoning include drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea and seizures.

Medications

Both prescription and over the counter medications intended for humans can be harmful to dogs. Commonly dangerous medications include painkillers, antidepressants and cold medicines.

Antifreeze

Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, which is highly toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can be fatal. Symptoms of antifreeze poisoning include vomiting, lethargy and loss of coordination.

If you suspect your dog has been exposed to a toxic substance, watch for the following signs:

Vomiting or diarrhoea
Excessive drooling
Difficulty breathing
Lethargy or weakness
Seizures or tremors

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your vet immediately. Having the number of an emergency vet clinic on hand can be lifesaving in such situations.

Dangerous Houseplants

Many common houseplants found in Australia can be toxic to dogs if ingested. Here are some plants to watch out for:

Peace Lily

Can cause irritation of the mouth, excessive drooling and difficulty swallowing.

Oleander

Extremely toxic, causing vomiting, decreased heart rate and death.

Philodendron

Ingestion can lead to oral irritation, vomiting and difficulty swallowing.

Dumb Cane

Can cause oral irritation, vomiting and difficulty swallowing.

Pothos

Causes oral irritation, vomiting and difficulty swallowing.

Sago Palm

Highly toxic, causing vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures and liver failure.

Bird of Paradise

Can cause nausea, vomiting and drowsiness.

Caladium

Can irritate a dog’s mouth, causing swelling, burning, difficulty breathing

Safer Alternatives for Pet-Friendly Homes

Consider replacing toxic plants with pet safe alternatives like:

Spider Plant

Hoya

Pilea

Parlour Palm

Prayer Plant

Calathea

Peperomia

Bromeliad

Toxic Foods for Dogs

Certain foods that are safe for humans can be very dangerous for dogs. Here is a list of common toxic foods to avoid:

Chocolate: Contains theobromine, which can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, rapid breathing and seizures.

Grapes and Raisins: Can lead to kidney failure.
Onions and Garlic: Can cause gastrointestinal irritation and damage to red blood cells.
Xylitol: A sweetener found in sugar free gum and other products, can cause rapid insulin release, leading to hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) and liver failure.
Alcohol: Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, central nervous system depression and even death.

Avocado: Contains persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhoea.
Caffeine: Found in coffee, tea and some soft drinks, can cause restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations and muscle tremors.
Macadamia Nuts: Can cause weakness, depression, vomiting and hyperthermia.
Cooked Bones: Can splinter and cause choking or gastrointestinal blockages.
Raw Dough: The yeast can expand in the stomach and cause severe pain and bloating.

Symptoms of Food Poisoning in Dogs and Immediate Steps to Take

If your dog has ingested a toxic food, look for symptoms such as:

Vomiting and diarrhoea
Excessive drooling
Weakness or lethargy
Rapid breathing or heart rate
Seizures

Contact your vet immediately if you suspect your dog has eaten something toxic. Provide as much information as possible about what and how much your dog ingested.

Being aware of the potential dangers in your home and taking proactive steps to prevent exposure is key to keeping your puppy safe and healthy. By eliminating toxic substances, choosing pet-safe plants, and keeping harmful foods out of reach, you can create a secure environment for your puppy.

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