March is Poison Prevention Month! This is a very important topic. Poisonings are one of the most common types of pet emergencies. The average household also contains quite a few items that are unsafe for our furry pals. A local Crown Point, IN vet lists some key ones below.
Lawn/Garden Products
The numbers on this one are pretty concerning. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife, American homeowners use over 10 times more chemical pesticides on their lawns that farmers use on crops. A 1991 study published by The Journal of the National Cancer Institute found a connection between 2,4-D herbicides and lymphomas in dogs and people. The study also found that pups were twice as likely to develop lymphoma if their humans used the herbicides on their lawns over four times a year. Another 2013 study found traces of lawn chemicals in the urine of pet dogs more than 48 hours after the initial application. Consider planting native flora, and limiting the use of chemicals on your yard.
Cleaning Agents
The average household contains a whopping 62 different chemicals, such as bleach, ammonia, chlorine, and glycol. Many everyday items, such as drain uncloggers, paints, laundry detergents, and toilet bowl cleaners, contain dozens of different chemicals. There are now many companies making non-toxic, natural products. These are safer for your pet and for the environment. You can also go the DIY route with many of these things. For instance, vinegar and baking soda are both safe and effective for cleaning. Ask your vet for more specific tips and information.
Plants
Plants help clean the air, and just give your home a cozy, welcoming feel. However, if you have pets, you’ll need to be careful to only bring home ones that are safe for your furry friend. Many popular plants are toxic to Fido and Fluffy! Lilies, for example, are extremely poisonous to our cats. In fact, the entire plant is toxic to your feline pal. Even drinking the water could make your kitty go into kidney failure! As for Fido, Sago palms are one of the most dangerous options. Philodendrons, rhododendrons, tulips, and oleanders are also unsafe. The ASPCA site has a wonderful directory of safe and unsafe plants online here.
Do you have questions about your pet’s safety or care? We can help! Contact us, your local Crown Point, IN animal clinic, today!
