Top 5 household hazards

If you think your dog is safe in your home, you may want to think again. Many ordinary household objects can pose a serious threat to your dog. Educate yourself on these dangerous items, and make sure that your dog stays healthy and safe.

1. Pesticides. Most of these pesticides (and fertilizers) are not harmful when applied according to directions or by a qualified lawn care service. Dogs are primarily poisoned by contact with concentrated products. This can occur if the product is not stored properly or if too much is used on the lawn. Insecticides are particularly dangerous because they have a higher degree of toxicity.

2. Prescription drugs. The container may be child-proof, but your dog may be persistent in chewing off the lid and getting to the pills inside. Human medications such as pain killers (including aspirin, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen), cold medicines, anti-cancer drugs, anti-depressants, vitamins, and diet pills can all be toxic to animals. Keep medication containers and tubes of ointments and creams away from dogs who could chew through them, and be vigilant about finding and disposing of any dropped pills. All drugs should be placed out of reach of dogs and children.

3. Over-the-counter medication. The same risks apply with OTC drugs. It is also important to remember that certain OTC drugs won't have the same effect on dogs. (Aspirin, for instance, can be dangerous.)

4. Plants. Dogs are infamous for their creative destruction of plants. For dogs, most grasses are non-toxic, while ingesting poinsettia stems and leaves may cause some stomach upset and vomiting. There are so many plants that are poisonous to your dog and most people don't know the half of them. There are literally dozens and dozens of plants that could be making your pet sick with things like vomiting, swelling of the tongue, abdominal pain or even convulsions.

5. Household products and cleaners. Many household cleaners can be used safely around cats and dogs. However, the key to safe use lies in reading and following product directions for proper use and storage. As a general rule, store all cleaning products in a secure cabinet out of the reach of dogs and keep them in their original packaging, or in a clearly labeled and tightly sealed container.They can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea or chemical burns, leading to organ damage.

If you suspect a poisoning, call your veterinarian or clinic immediately with the following information ready:
- Name of the poison
- How much was absorbed, ingested or inhaled
- How long ago you believe the poisoning occurred
- Weight of your pet

Signs of poisoning: vomiting, tremors, excessive salivation, color of gums, heart and breathing rates and, if practical, body temperature.