Dogs will eat just about anything. The most common way for a dog to become poisoned is to ingest human medications (prescribed and over the counter), food or by sampling a household plant. Some poisons will simply cause diarrhea or vomiting, and your dog will survive. Other poisons can be fatal very quickly and don’t have an antidote. It is important to know the signs of poisoning and be able to act quickly to save her life.

If you know that the dog has ingested a toxic substance, and it has been less than one hour you can induce vomiting. DO NOT induce vomiting if the dog has ingested something acidic or caustic such as household cleaners or batteries, etc. or is showing signs of poisoning.

Signs of Poisonings in dogs

Convulsions

Distress

Salivating

Drowsy

Excitement followed by depression

Uncoordinated

Unconscious

Convulsions

To induce vomiting give your dog 3% hydrogen peroxide by mouth. The dose is 0.5 – 1.0 mL per pound weight. Only give the dog ONE dose and then seek veterinarian advise as soon as possible.

If you don’t know what your dog has ingested, and your dog is exhibiting any of these signs seek immediate veterinary care.

If you have read my blogs you know that I have the pink-nosed garbage hound. His credo is: “If it fits in my mouth, it goes down the hatch” so I am always prepared.

1. Keep hydrogen peroxide at home and in the car. It is cheap and well worth the peace of mind.

2. Tape or elastic band a syringe to the hydrogen peroxide bottle so you will know where it is if the time comes. You can pick up syringe at any pharmacy (no cost).

3. Mark the syringe with the dose for your dog’s weight.

4. Enter your vet’s phone number in your cell phone contacts so it is handy in an emergency and call ASAP.

5. Don’t panic. Your dog needs you to focus and get him help.

6. Take a pet first aid course.

Common Plant Poisons

Rhododendron

Stinging Nettles

Thorn Apple

Wisteria

Yew

Flower bulbs of any kind

Ivy

Wild mushrooms

Common Food Poisons

Onions, garlic, chives

Grapes and raisins

Avocado

Alcohol

Macadamia nuts

Caffeine

Chocolate

Milk

Corn on the cob (can become lodged in intestines)

Cooked bones

Mouldy foods

When you are out on a walk watch for things that your dog can pick up like cigarette butts, marijuana, and garbage.

When you are at home keep chemicals, tools, batteries, and pesticides out of reach of your dog. Never assume that your dog won’t get into something and leave it out. They are curious beasts and need supervision and protection from themselves.

(Source: Canine Health and Emergency First Aid. H. Davis. 2022)