Pets

Poisoning is a condition where the normal functioning of the body system is disrupted due to the introduction of a substance or chemical leading to a deteriorating state and finally death. Most cases of poisoning in pets occur in dogs compared to cats as the former almost eat anything and everything. In Poisoning Part one (kindly go through previous articles on the page), we looked at some common signs of poisoning and what to do when one suspected a pet had been poisoned. Today, we will take a closer look at substances that can poison our pets.

NUMBER 1: MEDICATIONS and DRUGS

Every drug is a potential poison. Drugs are very useful in taking care of various illnesses and discomforts. However, when they are not used as prescribed, there are adverse effects. Some breeds do not tolerate certain drugs so even the least dose can be fatal. These drugs range from ones prescribed for humans to those for veterinary use.

NUMBER 2: FOOD ITEMS

We sometimes feel pity for our pets and stuff them with the foods we eat. Most of these however not only affect their growth but are highly poisonous. Some examples include chocolate, coffee, grapes, raisins, onion, alcohol, avocado, xylitol (sweetener in candy and pastries) and macadamia nuts.

NUMBER 3: HOUSEHOLD AND GARDENING CHEMICALS

These include everyday chemicals used for cleaning, spraying grass, warding off rodents, etc. Examples include bleach, some fertilizers, kerosene, detergents, herbicides, rodenticides, chemicals containing antifreeze, paint thinners and even some chemicals used in pools.

NUMBER 4: POISONOUS ANIMALS

Some animals as part of their defense mechanism produce poisons and when pets come in contact with them, it can be fatal. Examples include Snakes, Snail, Slugs, Toads and Frogs

NUMBER 5: POISONOUS PLANTS

Some plants contain substances which are toxic to pets. These could be in the leaf, root, flower, fruit or sometimes the whole plant. Whilst some may produce mild reactions, others can be fatal and should not be taken lightly. Some examples include aloe vera, amaryllis (bulb), angels trumpet, castor bean, daffodil, calla lily, dumb cane /dieffenbachia, elephant grass and morning glory.

PREVENTION AND CONTROL

• Keep all chemicals and drugs (ranging from pills to all household chemicals, etc) in cabinets far out of reach by your pet.
• Always follow guidelines on medications
• Although some food items are safe for dogs, treats given to pets must be safe
• When planting around your home, opt for those that will not have reactions with your pet or keep those plants far away from your pet
• Be observant and as much as possible, keep your pet home especially if you live in areas surrounded by water bodies and thickets
• When you spray with herbicides, insecticides, you paint, etc, keep your pet away from the area for at least 24 hours
• Acquire knowledge on anything that can be a potential hazard to your pet.

Poisoning is a condition where the normal functioning of the body system is disrupted due to the introduction of a substance or chemical leading to a deteriorating state and finally death. The effect of the chemical on the body could be sudden or gradual. Substances that cause poisoning are varied and these can range from organic substances such as plants and animals to inorganic substances such as chemicals used for spraying, painting etc.

Some of the common signs of poisoning include frequent vomiting, excessive salivation or drooling, difficulties in breathing, skin irritations and bleeding without clotting. There are several other presenting signs, however it is based on the type of substance absorbed into the body system.

SOME COMMON SUBSTANCES WHICH COULD BE INGESTED OR INHALED LEADING TO POISONING

• Household and Garden Chemicals
• Rat Poisons
• Insecticides
• Slug/Snail Pellets
• Ingestion of Tick and Flea Medications (usually spray)
• Petroleum Products
• Some Paints (especially those containing lead)
• Some Plants and Flowers
• Some Animals
• Smoke
• Tear Gas

WHAT TO DO

• Do not panic, take your pet away from the source of poison if it is known.
• Immediately take your pet to the veterinary clinic.
• Take note of the package of the substance if it is a product. You can take the package with you to the vet where possible or take a clear photo of the substance. This will enable the vet to choose the best remedy.

TREATMENT

Treatment involves mainly stabilizing your pet, and either removing the poison from the system by neutralizing the substance or inducing its removal from the body.  In severe cases, surgery may be required.

Ever gone to get a new puppy and it suddenly died? Or realised that your puppy is continually vomiting with diarrhoea? It could be suffering from the disease known as Canine Parvoviral Infection. This disease has become a major distress to breeders and pet owners.

As the name suggests, Parvo is a viral infection. It is one of the most stable viruses in the environment. It is heat stable and can resist cold temperatures very well. The virus is also quite resistant to several disinfectants available and can therefore survive for several months in a contaminated environment. Canine parvovirus targets animals from the Canidae family such as wolves, dogs and coyotes. Among dogs, puppies and unvaccinated adults are most susceptible. 

Transmission

Transmission can be direct through contact with an infected dog or indirect through contact with objects contaminated usually with faeces of an infected dog. The virus has a preference for rapidly developing cells, so it mostly targets the bone marrow and the walls of the small intestines. It damages the intestinal lining leading to bloody diarrhoea. Once the intestinal lining is damaged, other opportunistic bacteria to enter the bloodstream and cause secondary infections.

Signs, Symptoms & Diagnosis

Signs of the disease include vomiting, pungent smelling diarrhoea (bloody), loss of appetite, general weakness (lethargy). Diagnosis is based on clinical signs and history. Confirmation of the disease is through laboratory tests such as PCR, ELISA, and Electron Microscopy.

Survival from infection is unpredictable and death is usually due to dehydration or septic shock. There is no particular or specific treatment regime to this disease. Usually, dogs recover after giving supportive care such as replacing lost fluids and treating secondary bacterial infection. It is recommended to feed your pet with bland diets during that period until recovery. Alert your vet when your pet starts showing signs of the disease.

Vaccinate your pet between 5-6 weeks of age. Follow your veterinarian’s recommendation for parvovirus vaccination to protect your pet.