Dangerous Substances Every Pet Owner Should Know About

Each year, there are over 100,000 reported cases of pet poisonings across the United States. Although this is an alarming figure, there are many things we can do to protect our four- legged friends from coming into contact with and falling victim to toxic chemicals.

In fact, many pets who come into contact with these potentially-deadly substances can easily be kept out of harm’s way. It is our job as pet owners to be aware of the items that pose health risks and to, then, take the proper precautions to keep our critters’ paws away from them.

Here Are Some Of The Chemicals That Require Caution

Inside Your Home

There are many ingredients in your everyday household cleaners that could be toxic to your pets. This article details some of the specific ingredients and the products containing them that should be inaccessible to your dog at all times. Try keeping them in a locked cabinet, or on a high shelf your pet can’t reach.

Outside Your Home

The products we use to clean up outdoor spaces may also be harmful to your pets. The Humane Society’s website points out some of the dangerous materials that may be hiding in your garage or shed that could make your dog, cat or other pet seriously ill. When treating your lawn, vehicle or driveway, be sure to keep your pets far away, both during and after treatment.

Keeping your pool beautifully blue should be done with care. While it may seem like common sense to keep your pets away from containers of pool chemicals, also be aware that your dog may not be safe once they have been in the water. Get educated about how these most commonly-used pool chemicals could cause harm to your pet.

Medications

Human and pet medications are not created equally. Should your beloved animal get a hold of any commonly-used medications for people, she could have a disastrous reaction. This informative article, written by a veterinarian, discusses some of these dangerous over-the-counter and prescription medications, and how to keep them away from your pet.

Although you may unknowingly have potentially harmful items in your household, there are many ways to protect your pet’s well-being. Identifying what those may be is truly half the battle, and keeping them isolated from your dog and other pets is the best way to safeguard them from sickness. However, accidents do happen, so if you ever suspect that your little love has ingested something toxic, call or visit your veterinarian or pet emergency clinic right away.

Have you had a pet related accident that required medical attention? Please share your story in the comments below to help others avoid the same problem.

Vee Cecil (Contributing Author)

Vee Cecil is passionate about health and wellness for all. In addition to being a wellness coach

and bootcamp instructor, she recently launched a blog where she shares her favorite tips,

health advice and recipes.