Some of the most common pet emergencies result from pets eating poisonous items. As spring weather and activities arrive, here are a few things to make sure your pet avoids.

  • Easter Candy – Chocolate can be quite toxic to some dogs and cats because it contains the stimulant theobromine. Different pets can react differently to chocolate and different types of chocolate have different levels of theobromine, so it is best to avoid letting your dog have chocolate. Non-chocolate candies can be dangerous too. Many sugar-free candies and gums contain the sweetener xylitol, which can cause your dog’s insulin levels to rise very quickly.
  • Flowers – All parts of the bluebell plant are toxic to dogs, and can cause intestinal and cardiovascular problems if ingested. Daffodil bulbs are also poisonous and may cause diarrhea. The hedera helix variety of ivy can also cause diarrhea or vomiting, which in severe cases may contain blood. For some pets, contact with the plant might cause skin irritation.
  • Antihistamines – Springtime often means allergies for people, but the antihistamines we purchase to help our sniffling and sneezing can cause our pets to suffer vomiting and incoordination. Either hyperactivity or lethargy can also occur, and if the animal consumed a large amount of the substance, he or she make have trouble breathing.
  • Fertilizers – Many people use fertilizers when preparing flowerbeds and gardens, and those concerned about exposing their pets or themselves to chemicals may choose organic fertilizers. However products with bone meal, blood meal, feather meal, and iron may cause digestive problems and block the gastrointestinal tract, which is especially problematic because these items might be quite tasty to dogs.

If you believe your pet has ingested one of these items or another poisonous substance, the Kansas State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital offers a free poison control hotline. They can be reached at 785-532-5679. If your pet is exhibiting any of the symptoms mentioned above or needs immediate medical attention, you can bring him or her to Urgent Pet Care Omaha. We’re open during the evenings and on weekends when your regular veterinarian may be closed. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality care when your pet is ill or injured.

If you would like more information about the services we offer, please contact us.