How can I tell if my dog has been poisoned?

Our veterinarians in Blountville are aware that dogs tend to chew on harmful objects. As a responsible pet owner, it is crucial to identify the first signs of your dog being poisoned and understand the necessary steps to take if such symptoms are observed.

Dog Poisoning

Due to their curious nature, it's not uncommon for dogs to accidentally get poisoned. This often leaves caring pet owners worried and unsure of what to do.

At times, dogs may be exposed to harmful substances or consume treats that are not suitable for their metabolism, leading to poisoning.

Common Household Items Toxic to Dogs

It's crucial to remember that your home and garden might contain items that could be harmful or toxic to your dog. That's why you should always be aware of your dog's whereabouts and take necessary precautions to ensure that potentially dangerous substances are out of your dog's reach.

Some of the most commonly found household substances that can be toxic to dogs are:

How do you know if your dog has been poisoned?

Signs and symptoms of poisoning in dogs vary depending on the type of poison they are exposed to and can be categorized into a few different types. Below is a list of how to know if your dog has been poisoned.

• Symptoms caused by swallowed poisons can include vomiting, diarrhea, agitation, and heart issues.
• Inhaled toxins may cause breathing difficulties or loss of consciousness in dogs.
• If your dog's skin comes in contact with a poisonous substance typical symptoms include irritation and pain.

It is important to note that poisoning symptoms usually appear within a few days, and in some cases can last for months.

Long-Term Symptoms of Dog Poisoning

In case you suspect that your dog has ingested a poisonous substance, it's crucial to seek treatment immediately. It's a common misconception that the absence of initial symptoms implies that your dog is safe from the harmful effects of the toxic substance.

However, some long-term symptoms may manifest, such as irregular heartbeat, kidney failure, liver damage, blood loss, and neurological symptoms like seizures. Therefore, it's essential to act promptly in such situations to ensure the well-being of your furry friend.

What To Do If You Think Your Dog Has Been Poisoned

If your dog has been poisoned, stay calm and call our Blountville emergency vets immediately.

Make sure to get your dog well away from the poisonous substance. If your dog got into it once, they may head right back to it while you are on the phone. Safely move the substance well out of your dog's reach.

Do not try to administer doggie first aid. Different poisonous substances require different actions. While some cases may call for inducing vomiting, in other cases, inducing vomiting could make your dog even sicker. Get your dog to the vet as quickly as possible and let your veterinary professionals administer appropriate treatment.

If you know what poisoned your dog, safely transport any packaging or a sample of the poison to your veterinarian's office. The packaging will assist your veterinarian in fully comprehending the situation and determining the best treatment option for your dog.

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.

If your dog has ingested a toxic substance, please bring them to our Blountville office immediately. Our team of veterinarians are available evening, weekends, and holidays to provide reliable and compassionate care for your pet.