Poisons and Pets: Key Information
We love our pets more than life itself and are always worried about their health and well-being. We know the kinds of snacks that are healthy, we know that we need to keep them active, but do we know what we need to do when theres an emergency? We have a few guidelines on what to keep in mind at all times.
Firstly, remind yourself of the foods which are poisonous to our pets.
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Dogs
Onions, garlic and chives
Chocolate Macadamia nuts Corn on the cob Avocado Artificial sweetener (Xylitol) Alcohol Cooked bones |
Cats
Grapes and raisins
Onions and Garlic
Raw Eggs, Raw Meat & Bones
Chocolate
Caffeinated Drinks
Alcohol
Raw Dough
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The ABCs of Pet Care
First aid classes teach us to assess the ABCs: Airway, Breathing, and Circulation. The same principal applies to your pet. Attempt CPR if necessary and call emergency services if your pet is bleeding profusely after compressing the wound.
How to Put Together a Pet First Aid Kit
Milk and Dairy Products Putting together a pet first aid kit is very similar to how you would make a human version. You can buy a ready-made kit or make your own. Be sure to include a leash, compresses, antiseptic spray, wipes, gloves, a soft cloth item to use as a muzzle, or purchase a muzzle. Your dog may lash out in fear and pain. Securing his muzzle keeps you both safe in an emergency.
Include non-stick bandages, self-cling gauze, and paper tape to dress wounds in an emergency. You may also want to include a pet thermometer to help determine if your pet is too hot or too cold. Other useful items can include splint supplies, tweezers, eyedroppers, plastic syringes for giving oral medication, clean towels, blankets, and a natural product to help calm your animal.
If your pet ingests a poisonous substance, you’ll need to consult emergency services before leaving for the vet. Things like activated charcoal, hydrogen peroxide, milk of magnesia, and syrup of ipecac can all be used to treat or delay effects of poisoning.
What to do in an Emergency
- Stay calm
- Check Airway, Breathing, and Circulation
- Start CPR if necessary:
- Call for help
- Administer any first aid recommended by the veterinarian
- Splint broken bones before moving
- Get your pet to the vet or an emergency clinic as soon as possible
London Emergency numbers to save:
- London Animal Hospital: 020 3816 1010
- Blue Cross Animal Hospital, London: 0300 777 1890
- MediVet 24hr, London: 020 3816 101