As the holidays quickly approach, so does the likelihood pets will be exposed to certain toxins. Many of these are plants, particularly poinsettias, holly, mistletoe, and lilies. Here are some quick facts about these plants. Poinsettias (Euphorbia spp): contain chemicals called diterpenoid euphorbol esters and saponin-like detergents. Although considered poisonous, only mild clinical signs occur….
Antifreeze, or ethylene glycol, is a common toxin our pets are exposed to. Pet owners will often not realize their car is leaking in the garage or not think twice about the unidentified puddle their pet drank from. Because antifreeze has a sweet taste to it, pets will readily drink large quantities. It only takes…
The winter season can be very cold and long. To make house decor more festive it is often a fun idea to bring winter plants indoors to spruce up the home, but are all winter plants safe to have in the house? There are a handful of popular winter plants that can be dangerous for…
Heather Handley, DVM Senior Consulting Veterinarian, Clinical Toxicology Pet Poison Helpline® The conventional road salt is large, coarse grains of sodium chloride (NaCl). That is the same chemical as table salt. It is the most cost-effective way to prevent freezing on roadways, but it has environmental costs. Some areas may try to decrease the amount…
By: Charlotte Flint, DVM Staff Veterinarian People are often surprised to learn that we see trends in poisonings here at Pet Poison Helpline® based on the season or time of year. As we head into 2014, let’s review the year in poison and hopefully you can use this information to help keep your pets safe…
