Do you know what pet toxins are in and around your home? Does your pet have access to toxic plants and chemicals that you don't realize?
Here in the desert, there are toxins specific to our environment that are poisonous to humans and pets that are specific to our region and environment. There are naturally occurring plants and animals that you may not realize are toxic to pets. For example, Oleander is highly toxic to dogs and cats, which grows freely in many parts of Tucson. Some poisonous animals in this environment are the Colorado River Toad and Rattlesnakes - envenomation by these creatures can be deadly.
For a list of common poisons found around the home, view the infographic at the bottom of this blog post.
Thankfully, there are many steps that you can take to prevent accidental poisoning of your dog or cat. Here are a few examples:
- Educate yourself on potential dangers which are found in your environment and relocate sources of toxins so that they are not accessible by your pets.
- Discard chemical or medical containers once they are empty so that your pet does not feel encouraged to play with them.
- Antifreeze tastes sweet and the smell can be enticing to dogs. If you are using antifreeze and spill some, be sure to thoroughly clean the area - this poison can be fatal, even in small amounts.
- Do not leave your pet unattended when outside. It is not rare in Tucson for rattlesnakes to be undetected in backyards. (Rattlesnake avoidance training is available for dogs through dog trainers. For more information about this special training, you can contact Vanya at Animal Magnetism - (520)440-5040)
- For more information on preventative measures you can take to avoid accidental toxicity, you can visit the Arizona Poison and Drug Information Center website or the Pet Poison Helpline website.
- Visit the Arizona Poison and Drug Information Center website to learn more about Toxic Plants and Arizona and Venomous Creatures in Arizona.
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