Elevated Pet Danger over the Holidays

Online, December 2, 2009 (Newswire.com) - Cats and dogs find many things that are left out irresistible and fully investigate. The problem is that they do not know what is bad for them. This could be as simple as food left on the table or as bad as a medicine container on the bathroom counter.

Here is a partial list of products and items that can damage or kill your pet:

• Acetaminophen and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. Ibuprofen can cause gastrointestinal damage and kidney dysfunction in a dog. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can result in anemia and potential liver damage in cats. The metabolic systems of humans are different than cat and dog species.
• Prescription or illegal drugs. The cap says "Child Proof", not "Pet Proof" and don't try to releave your pet's pain with human pain medicine.
• Rodenticides
• Antifreeze
• Chocolate. Theobromine is a chemical contained in chocolate that can affect the kidneys, heart, and central nervous system.
• Grapes and raisins. These have been shown to cause renal failure in dogs.
• Onions and garlic. Despite the fact that some pet foods use these as flavorings, large amounts can cause severe red blood cell damage, especially in cats.
• Bread dough. Rapid expansion if eaten before baking can cause ethanol poisoning.
• Macadamia nuts. Short-term hind-limb paralysis is possible.
• Lilies. Critical levels of toxicity can be reached almost immediately. All parts of the plant are dangerous. Holly, mistletoe and plant bulbs such as Amaryllis should be placed out of reach.

This list is not inclusive so just let your pets get at what they are supposed to. Caring for a very sick pet during the holidays can be easily avoided by taking the extra time to prevent injestion of poisenous substances. A veterinarian should be called immediately if your pet injests any of the above. It is a good idea for you to have your veterinary clinic and local after-hours emergency pet clinic phone numbers posted where you can immediately find them.