Monday, June 17, 2013

Spring and Summer Hazards



Toxic to Cats & Dogs
  • rhododendron
  • foxglove
  • azalea
  • oleander
  • lily-of-the-valley
  • sago palm
  • yew plant
  • mountain laurel
  • mushrooms
  • rhubarb leaves
  • easter lily
  • day lily
  • tiger lily
  • other lily species
  • castor beans
Animal Poison Control Center

If the worst does happen and your pet ingests something that may be toxic, consult your vet immediately, or contact the APCC at (888) 426-4435 or www.apcc.aspca.org.

Miscellaneous Do's and Don'ts
  • Keep prescription and over-the-counter medications out of your pets' reach. Painkillers, cold medicines, antidepressants, vitamins and diet pills can be lethal, even in small doses.
  • Use flea insecticides carefully at all times, and never use them on very young, pregnant or elderly animals. In these cases, comb the fleas off the animal with a flea comb and submerge the fleas in a container of soapy water.
  • Read label information before using a product on your pet or in your home. If it's meant for use on dogs, it should never be used on cats, and vice versa.
  • Make sure your pets do not go on lawns treated with fertilizers, herbicides or insecticides until they have dried completely.
    Be alert for engine coolant leaking from your vehicle's radiator. Animals are attracted to the sweet taste and ingesting just a small amount can be deadly. Use animal-friendly products that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol.
  • Mothballs, potpourri oils, coffee grounds, homemade play dough, fabric softener sheets, dishwashing detergent, batteries, cigarettes, alcoholic drinks, pennies and hand- and foot-warmers could be dangerous.
  • When using rat, mouse, snail or slug baits, or ant or roach traps, place the products in areas that are inaccessible to your pet. Some bait contains sweet-smelling inert ingredients, such as jelly, peanut butter or sugar that can attract your pets.
Originally published by APCC.