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Natural Awakenings National

Top 10 Household Hazards

Even when we feel that we’re doing a good job of keeping our pets safe, we can all be more vigilant, counsels the Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) at The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Last year, the APCC answered more than 116,000 calls, significantly more than the year before. In response, the center has released a helpful list of the top 10 household product categories that typically prove hazardous to animals:

 

1. Human medications

From over-the-counter pain relievers to prescription drugs, human medications are the most common cause of poisoning in dogs and cats. “Just one extra-strength acetaminophen can be deadly to a cat, and just four regular-strength ibuprofens can lead to serious kidney problems in a 10-pound dog,” advises Dr. Steven Hansen, a veterinary toxicologist with the ASPCA. He suggests storing medications in a secure cabinet out of the animal’s reach.

2. Insecticides

In one recent year, the APCC handled more than 27,000 calls reporting problems involving flea and tick products, clearly demonstrating the toxicity of these products. Wherever possible, avoid use of chemical-laden flea and tick killers in favor of a holistic approach to pest control through diet, supplements, grooming and natural flea products. Google ‘natural flea and tick control’ for options.

3. Veterinary medications

The poison center has seen a whopping 93 percent increase in cases involving veterinary medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, heartworm preventives, antibiotics and vaccines. Minimize use of these drugs by consulting a holistic vet about alternative treatments and therapies.

4. Plants

Houseplants may look good, but many are highly toxic, including common varieties like azalea and rhododendron. “Lilies, for example, are highly toxic to cats,” says Hansen. “Even ingested in small amounts, they can produce life-threatening kidney failure.” Keep houseplants out of animals’ reach and provide safe alternatives, such as barley grass or catnip.

5. Rodenticides

As pet food recalls tragically have shown, rat poisons and similar toxins can lead to potentially life-threatening situations for dogs and cats, including seizure or kidney damage. Consider safer, more humane ways of getting rid of rodents, such as live traps. Just as parents baby-proof a home, why not proactively pet-proof both home and property?

6. Household cleaners

Bleaches, detergents and disinfectants are just some of the household cleaners that can harm furry, four-footed and other companions. Store all cleaners in a secure spot; better yet, switch to nontoxic, green alternatives.

7. Chocolate

Don’t share this tasty treat with animals. Chocolate contains caffeine-like substances known as methylxanthines, which can cause abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures and even death in animals, especially dogs. “Typically, the darker the chocolate, the greater the potential for poisoning,” notes Hansen.

8. Chemical hazards

This group encompasses antifreeze, drain cleaners, pool and spa chemicals and others. Hanson says, “These substances can cause a variety of problems, ranging from gastrointestinal upset and depression to respiratory difficulties and chemical burns.”

9. Physical hazards

Be alert for objects that could cause choking, intestinal obstruction or other injury. “We’ve managed cases involving the ingestion of several common objects—from pet collars and adhesive tape to bones, paper products and similar items,” says Hansen. “It is important to make sure that items that could be easily knocked over, broken, chewed up or swallowed are kept out of the reach of curious pets.”

10. Home improvement products

The APCC has dealt with thousands of cases involving paint, solvents, expanding glues and other products used in construction and renovation. Advises Hanson, “Pet parents should keep animals out of areas where home improvement projects are taking place.”


For more information visit www.ASPCA.org/APCC.

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