Here is some life-saving advice from the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) for the steps you should take if your dog is ever poisoned.
Don’t panic. Rapid response is important, but panicking can interfere with the process of helping your dog.
Take 30 to 60 seconds to safely collect and have at hand any material involved. This may be of great benefit to your vet or APCC toxicologists, as they determine what poison(s) are involved. If you need to take your dog to a veterinarian, be sure to take the product’s container with you. In a sealable plastic bag, collect any material your dog may have vomited or chewed.
If you witness your dog consuming material that you suspect might be toxic, do not hesitate to seek emergency assistance, even if you do not notice any adverse effects. Sometimes, even if poisoned, an animal may appear normal for several hours or days after the incident.
Call the APPC at 888-426-4435. There is a $60 consultation fee for this service.
Be ready with the following information:
The breed, age, sex and weight of your dog
Your dog’s symptoms
Information regarding the exposure, including the agent (if known), the amount of the agent involved and the time elapsed since the time of exposure
Have the product container/packaging available for reference.
If your dog is having seizures, losing consciousness, is unconscious or is having difficulty breathing, immediately take him to your veterinarian or local emergency veterinary clinic.
Be Prepared
Keep the telephone number of the APPC, as well as that of your veterinarian, in a prominent location.
Invest in an emergency first-aid kit for your dog, which should contain the following:
A fresh bottle of hydrogen peroxide, 3-percent USP (to induce vomiting)
A turkey baster, bulb syringe or large medicine syringe (to administer peroxide)
Saline eye solution
Artificial tear gel (to lubricate eyes after flushing)
Mild, grease-cutting dishwashing liquid (for bathing an animal after skin contamination)
Forceps (to remove stingers)
A muzzle (to protect against fear- or excitement-induced biting)
A can of your dog’s favorite wet food
A pet carrier
Always consult a veterinarian or the APCC for directions on how and when to use any emergency first-aid item.
Animal Poison Control Center website
Tags: APPC, ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, dog poisoning
