This week is national Poison Prevention Week, and we’re highlighting how to safely store hazardous items away from pets. Prevention is the number one way to keep your dog safe from toxic materials. Check out our tips down below for keeping your pooch safe around the house.

 

Cleaning Products

You probably don’t think twice about how your cleaning products of choice an affect your pet, but now is a good time to start. Always make sure to read the label and keep your dog away from any cleaning solution that hasn’t dried. You should also ensure that you’re following the instructions for proper usage and storage. In general, keep all cleaning products stored in a secure cabinet out of reach from your dog. Also keep all cleaning products in their original packaging or in a clearly labeled, tightly sealed container.

Insecticides/Pesticides/Rodenticides

Ensure that the flea and tick product your choose for your dog is clearly labeled as being “for use on dogs only”. Using a product meant for cats or other species of animals can lead to serious illness or life-threatening conditions. If you choose to use mouse traps or rodent poisons around the house, make sure your placing them out of the reach of your pets. If your dog ingests one of these poisons, they can become seriously ill and even die as a result.

Common Household Items

Items like mothballs, potpourri, electrical cords, and tobacco products out of reach from your dog at all times. If they consume one of these items, it can lead to serious consequences. For instance, a seeming harmless product like a mothball  can cause your dog to become extremely ill. They contain naphthalene, which is known to cause damage to the liver and kidney, blood cell damage, and digestive tract irritation. Make sure these products are stored in secure locations out of your dog’s reach at all times.

You also want to keep any small objects that may fall on the floor away from your dog. They can easily be confused for a toy or a piece of food and are easily swallowed. This can cause obstruction in your dogs digestive track and may lead to surgical removal of the item.

In the Bathroom

Your bathroom contains a variety of items that can be dangerous for your dog. Make sure your keeping all medications, whether OTC or prescribed, in a secure location above counter height. Any medication intended for human consumption can make your dog extremely sick if they get a hold of it. Consult with your veterinarian before administering any kind of medication, even if you think something may be safe for your dog.

Also keep bath soap, hand soaps, lotions, and sunscreens out of reach from your dog. They contain a variety of chemicals and fragrances which can cause illness in your dog when consumed. If you think your dog has eaten one of these, look for symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea and contact your vet. It’s also important to keep toilet lids closed, as an remaining cleaners inside the water can cause irritation to your dog’s digestive tract.