By Robbi Hess ~ Managing Editor Pet Calendar, Crimeless Cat Executive Story Editor, Chief Cat Herder
March has been designated Poison Prevention Awareness Month and as pet parents it is our responsiblity to keep our pets free from harm and to make certain they do not get into potentially harmful products.
If you’re a pet sitter or a pet parent you need to know what items are potentially dangerous or even deadly for your pets. Here are a few items that the Pet Poison Helpline provides as guidance for pet-poison proofing your home.
PET CALENDAR: POISON PREVENTION AWARENESS MONTH
For dog pet parents:
- Chocolate, particularly bakers and dark chocolate.
- Xylitol, the sweetener used in sugarless gums and candies, as well as some medications. You can sometimes find xylitol in peanut butter so before you feed that to your dog, check the ingredients
- NSAIDS, such as ibuprofen and naproxen
- Over the counter cough, cold and allergy medications
- Mouse poison
For cat pet parents:
- Lilies
- Household cleaners that are concentrated, such as toilet bowl or drain cleaners. (this is dangerous for dogs as well)
- Flea and tick treatments are created for use on dogs.
- Antidepressants, such as Cymbalta and Effexor.
Just as you’d baby proof your home you need to pet proof as well to keep your pets out of and away from potentially dangerous items. Lock the hazardous items in a cupboard your pet cannot get into or cannot reach. Keep all medications well out of reach of your pets. Remember, to keep your purse or briefcase out of reach as well — especially if you might hve sugar free gums or medications there.
