Spring cleaning is right around the corner, which means many households are bringing out cleaning supplies, yard products, and other chemicals that can pose risks to curious pets.
National Poison Prevention Week is observed each March to raise awareness about the dangers of household poisons and how to prevent accidental exposure. While this week highlights the importance of poison safety, it’s something pet owners should keep in mind all year long.
Pets explore the world with their noses and mouths, which means they can easily get into things they shouldn’t, from cleaning products and medications to certain foods and plants. Taking a few simple precautions around your home can make a big difference in keeping your furry family members safe.
Preventing Poison Exposure at Home
Many common household items can be toxic to pets, so prevention starts with safe storage and supervision.
Here are a few simple steps pet owners can take to reduce the risk of poisoning:
- Store cleaning products safely: Never allow pets access to areas where cleaning agents are being used or stored, and keep products sealed and out of reach.
- Secure medications: Keep all prescription and over-the-counter medications in closed cabinets above counter height where pets can’t access them.
- Keep chocolate and sweets away: Chocolate and sugar-free products containing xylitol are highly toxic to pets and should never be left unattended.
- Store automotive products carefully: Gasoline, oil, antifreeze, and similar chemicals should always be kept in sealed containers and stored in secure areas. Even small amounts of antifreeze can be deadly.
- Use yard chemicals cautiously: Prevent pets from walking on lawns or gardens treated with fertilizers, herbicides, or insecticides until the products have completely dried. Keep an eye out for the warning signs posted in treated lawns!
- Watch small household hazards: Items like batteries, essential oils, and certain houseplants can also pose poisoning risks if chewed or swallowed.
Taking time to pet-proof your home is one of the best ways to prevent an emergency before it happens.
What To Do If You Suspect Poisoning
If you think your pet has ingested something toxic, act quickly and contact a professional right away. Prompt action can make a critical difference in your pet’s safety.
- Call your veterinarian immediately: Your veterinarian can advise you on the safest next steps based on what your pet may have ingested.
- Remove your pet from the area: Prevent further exposure and make sure other pets or children cannot access the substance.
- Watch for symptoms: Depending on the toxin, reactions may take several minutes or longer to appear and can include vomiting, tremors, difficulty breathing, or unusual behavior.
- Save evidence of the toxin: Collect the packaging, container, label, or a sample of the material to show your veterinarian, which can help determine the proper treatment.
If your regular veterinarian is unavailable, contact an emergency veterinary clinic or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) for immediate guidance.
A Little Prevention Goes a Long Way
A few simple precautions can help keep your pets safe from dangerous toxins year-round. National Poison Prevention Week is a great reminder to look around your home and identify potential hazards before your pet finds them first. By storing chemicals safely, monitoring what pets have access to, and knowing what to do in an emergency, you can greatly reduce the risk of accidental poisoning. Together, we can help keep pets safe, healthy, and happy in your home year-round.